It’s common for people to dread getting a root canal, but if a dentist recommends it, there may not be any better options for fixing the tooth. Luckily, the surrounding gums are numbed during the procedure. This is sufficient for most people to get through a root canal without much discomfort.
However, some people may need a little more help to comfortably undergo the procedure. Find out why some people opt for sedation during a root canal and what the sedation options are for dental work.
Why Do People Get Sedation for Root Canals?
Sedation can help patients relax mentally and physically during dental work, allowing them to be more comfortable–and sometimes completely asleep. This also allows dentists (or endodontists) to perform root canals without an anxious patient moving around too much, making the procedure safer, smoother, and sometimes faster.
There are some specific reasons in which the dentist might recommend root canal sedation:
What Are the Options for Root Canal Sedation?
The sedation options for dental work most often involve conscious sedation, meaning the patient is drowsy but still able to respond to questions and instructions, and breathe on their own. They may fall asleep, but can be easily woken up. This is different from the sedation used for major surgeries, where a patient cannot wake up until the anesthesia wears off.
There are a few ways to achieve conscious sedation.
- High levels of dental anxiety and fear
- Fear of the needles used for the local anesthetic to numb the gums
- Conditions that make it difficult for a patient to sit still for long periods
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Low pain tolerance
While sedation is never strictly necessary for dental procedures, many dentists offer the option for these reasons. In one survey of dentists in the U.S. and Canada, 75.7% reported using some sedation regularly, with half of them reporting using sedation up to six times per month, and half reporting using sedation more than six times per month.
Nitrous Oxide for Root Canals
Nitrous oxide is commonly used for root canal sedation. It is inhaled through a mask and causes the patient to feel calm and relaxed after breathing it in for a few minutes. When the procedure is over, the dentist switches to pure oxygen, which flushes the nitrous oxide out of the patient’s system. The patient is then completely back to normal within a few minutes and able to drive afterward, if necessary.
Oral Sedation for Root Canals
Oral sedation for a root canal comes in the form of a pill taken before the procedure. Some are also available as a syrup for children. There are many different types of medications that can be used for this route. Typically, this is some type of benzodiazepine–a medication often used for anxiety. These are often stronger than nitrous oxide, and the patient may fall asleep. Generally, the patient will need to arrange for a ride home after the root canal, since the medication may take some time to be completely out of their system.
IV Sedation for Root Canals
Intravenous (IV) sedation for root canals is much less common, and some dentists may not offer it at all. IV sedation is delivered directly to the bloodstream through a needle in the arm. It provides a much deeper sedation effect, in which the patient will likely not remember the procedure at all. IV sedation requires the patient to arrange for a way home without driving.
Alternative Calming Methods
Some dentists might offer alternatives to traditional sedation methods for root canal anxiety. One option that some dentists are now offering is NuCalm–a system that involves listening to soothing sounds through headphones to induce certain calming brainwaves. Other alternative options might be the use of calming essential oils or even virtual reality machines. However, these methods may only work with milder dental anxiety, and it may be harder to find dentists offering them.
When to Avoid Root Canal Sedation
The sedation options for dental work are typically well tolerated by patients. However, people with certain conditions may be advised to avoid some of these methods. Reasons to avoid sedation include:
- Pregnancy. Dentists might advise waiting until after the pregnancy to do a root canal if sedation is needed.
- Drug interactions. Some sedation methods may interfere with certain medications. Make sure to tell a dentist about any medications being taken.
- Allergies to any substances in the sedative.
- A dentist may advise against nitrous oxide inhalation if you have any upper respiratory issues.
- Dental sedation may be advised against if a patient has cardiovascular disease or problems with their liver or kidneys.
Talking to a Dentist About Root Canal Anxiety
It’s normal to feel nervous about a dental procedure like a root canal. If you are having root canal anxiety or you think you (or your child) may have issues sitting still long enough for a root canal, talk to a dentist about the best options for your situation. For some people, a dentist’s assurance that a root canal procedure is not very painful these days may be enough. If not, a good dentist will direct you to the right option. Get help finding an experienced dental professional in your area here.