Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

The primary mission of Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio is to resolve pain, swelling, and other symptoms associated with teeth that are damaged due to decay or other causes. Our endodontists, Drs. Rick Davis and Rick Schwartz will ensure that the process of restoring and preserving your teeth is pain-free and relaxing. We treat many anxious patients and to manage their anxiety we offer a range of sedation dentistry options.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Dental sedation utilizes medications to help anxious patients relax when undergoing services or procedures at the dentist’s office. Sedative drugs are used in combination with local anesthetic.

What Types of Dental Sedation Do You Offer?

We have the advanced training to administer a range of sedative methods safely. These options include nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Known commonly as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is delivered via a small mask over your nose and induces a general feeling of relaxation and well-being. Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas which is reversed at the end of the procedure by breathing oxygen. Since nitrous oxide is not associated with lingering drowsiness after treatment, patients do not need to arrange for transportation to and from our office. It is a safe, mild form of sedation we use most often with children. 

What is Oral Sedation?

Patients take a pill (Halcion) about 60 minutes before their appointment. At the time of the appointment we sometimes have patients take a second pill, depending on how sleepy they feel.  Halcion is a sleeping pill that also contains an anti-anxiety component. Most patients doze through the appointment and don’t remember much afterwards. You will need someone to drive you to and from the appointment, as the effects of Halcion make it unsafe to drive, and plan on taking a nap when you get home.  We will go over everything in more detail at your evaluation appointment. 

What is Involved with IV Sedation?

Sedative medications are delivered through a vein in your arm.  Whereas oral sedation makes you doze, IV sedation puts you to sleep there is no memory of treatment afterward.   This is the most profound form of sedation available at our office. For utmost safety, one doctor administers the sedative and monitors the patient while another performs the dental procedures. As with oral sedation, you will need a driver and plan to go home and take a nap.

Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

With the sedation options available at Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio,even patients with high anxiety can be treated safely and comfortably.  In addition to anxious patients, we also use sedation sometimes for patients with bad gag reflexes, and those undergoing lengthy or complicated procedures. Patients travel from across south-central Texas and other parts of the state and country to benefit from our array of therapeutic options and advanced technical skills. Call (210) 405-0473 to schedule your consultation today.

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