Dentist/oral Surgeon

If he needs a root canal you could also consult an endodontist. They specialize in root canals. The problem you are going to run into if he wants to be "out" as in completely sedated is you will need a doc who is licensed/certified to perform sedations. My hubby is and he had to take specialized training with anesthesiologists. An endodontist may use gas but most probably don't do heavier sedation. And a heavier sedation is going to cost far more $$.

Wanted to add too-oral surgeons don't do root canals. The general dentists can tackle some of them but I'd rather go to the specialist that spent an extra 3 years in school beyond the 4 in dental school to take care of a specialized problem.

if you dont mind coming downtown, my daughter's dentist is fabulous! they put her under for a pulpectomy. Dr Hayes at the corner of Mich Ave and Chicago Ave....highly recommended!

Why don't you call 1-800-Dentist? This way you can find someone who meets all of your sons/insurance needs and then schedule a consultation.

I get gas even when I get my teeth cleaned, so I understand the anxiety. I would think you'd want an oral surgeon (as most can put patients out).

Why don't you try making an appointment for him to go sit in the chair and discuss it with the oral surgeon, with the understanding that he will not have any procedure done that day? Let the pro discuss it with him, from the procedure to the various options and their side effects (or lack of same), as well as how they can change plans as they go along depending on how your son is doing/reacting - I am sure this has come up before. My son had 4 wisdom teeth out and although he did not receive "gas" he was completely out!

Is your son receiving other treatments for his panic attacks? It might be good to address that as well.

Usually in the yellow page ads for Dentists it will state "we use nitrous oxide".... you can keep calling around to ask. I always had to have that when I was young too. Now I dont care anymore, I guess you can grow out of the nerves eventually.

Look up Pediatric Dentists. They usually do the dental work in a hospital and the little guys are put out with anesthesia. Call a local dental school and see if they have any recommendations. Or call a nearby children's hospital and see if they have any dentists that use their out patient facilities for this type procedure.