Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Dentists from about a 3 hour radius refer their nervous or fearful patients to us at Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio.  We provide safe sedation dentistry  including a full range of options, from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to IV sedation.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation causes relaxation and a general feeling of well-being. Different patients require different levels of sedation from mild relation with nitrous oxide to sleep induced with IV sedation.

Why is Sedation Recommended?

Some patients want sedation just to allow them to relax during the procedures. Some have severe anxiety or even dental phobia which can prevent them from getting the care they need. We offer different levels of sedation customised to the needs of each patient.  Our goal is that every patient will be comfortable and relaxed during treatment. 

What are the options for sedation dentistry?

For patients who need minimal sedation we may recommend nitrous oxide. This gas is administered through a nasal mask and causes patients to feel calm and relaxed. The effects of the gas can be reversed quickly by administering oxygen at the end of treatment. Patients can safely drive themselves to and from their appointment. 

Oral sedation is appropriate for people who need deeper sedation than is provided by nitrous oxide. A Halcion pill is prescribed and taken approximately one hour before the procedure. In some cases, a second pill may be administered under the tongue. Halcion is a sleeping medication with an anti-anxiety effect. Patients are relaxed and tend to doze during the appointment and then take a nap when they go home. 

IV sedation is used most often for patients with high anxiety.  Sedation drugs are administered through a vein in the arm and causes patients to sleep through their appointment and have no memory of the procedure afterward. Two of our doctors are involved; one performs the dental procedure, while the other administers and monitors the sedation. 

For both oral and IV sedation, special  equipment is used to monitor blood pressure, blood oxygen, and other vitals while patients sleep. We use a local anesthetic to numb the area in addition to the sedation drugs. Since these options cause lingering drowsiness, patients must have someone drive them to and from their visit.

We look forward to addressing your concerns and answering your questions. Give us a call at (210) 405-0473 to request your consultation today.