Do I Need Sedation to Get a Root Canal?

You can’t stand it any longer. You have a tooth that is unbearably painful. You decide to call your dentist and finally get the treatment you need. The truth is that you feel nervous whenever you think about visiting the dentist, and you worry that you’ll need a complicated procedure. When the dentist examines the tooth, they say that you need a root canal in Kernersville. What exactly does that mean? Should you consider having additional sedation to have a more comfortable experience? Read on to find out the answers to these good question.

What is a root canal?

Root canal therapy is a treatment that occurs inside the tooth. Basically, this procedure involves removing the pulp or center of the tooth, sealing it, and then placing a dental crown over the tooth. Although the general public seems to fear root canals, thinking that they cause pain, the procedures themselves entail the same level of discomfort that filling a cavity does. In fact, these procedures address and remove the source of the pain, bringing much-needed relief.

Why would I need a root canal?

In many cases, patients experience a severe toothache before needing a root canal, which is likely how the myth got started; however, you do not have to feel pain before undergoing a root canal. Root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp becomes exposed to harmful bacteria, which can happen through infection or a dental injury. Without this salvaging procedure, the affected tooth would need to be extracted completely.

What does sedation do?

In general, sedatives are used to keep patients calm during certain procedures. One popular form of sedation in dentistry is nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, which is administered through a nasal mask and inhaled throughout the appointment. Nitrous oxide works quickly, giving the patient a warm, contented feeling within minutes. The dosage can be adjusted to find the perfect setting for the patient and make sure they are completely comfortable. Once the procedure is complete, the effects of the nitrous oxide only take a few minutes to wear off, allowing you to return to normal without side effects.

Is sedation right for me?

If you are undergoing root canal therapy, you may feel increased levels of stress or anxiety—even if you know that the procedure will not hurt. If this is the case for you, talk to your dentist about your fears and about using sedation to ease your mind. They can listen to your needs and make the necessary accommodations to help you sit back and relax during the procedure.

Getting root canal therapy doesn’t have to be a scary experience. By using sedation dentistry in Kernersville, you can ensure that you get necessary dental treatment without the stress and fear. To learn more about root canals or nitrous oxide sedation, contact your dentist today!

About the Practice

Since 1990, Dr. Veronica Walker has been serving families in the Kernersville area. Her son Dr. Zack Walker joined the practice and shares his mother’s dedication to meeting patients’ needs. They offer nitrous oxide sedation for those who experience dental anxiety, particularly for more complicated procedures. If you’d like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Walker, you can contact the practice by clicking here.