For many people, the thought of oral surgery can be overwhelming and lead to feelings of anxiety. Sedation dentistry is an excellent solution to consider, allowing patients to undergo dental procedures in a relaxed and comfortable state. Before choosing this option, it’s important to understand the different types of sedation available and their associated costs. Here’s what you need to know about sedation dentistry and how it can make your dental experience more pleasant.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry includes various options tailored to meet the specific needs and comfort levels of patients:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This is a popular choice for those needing mild sedation. Administered through a nasal mask, nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that quickly induces relaxation. The effects wear off almost immediately after the mask is removed so patients can expect to continue their day without lingering drowsiness.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This involves taking a prescribed sedative pill before the procedure to help you relax. It’s suitable for patients with mild to moderate anxiety. You remain awake but very relaxed, often with little memory of the procedure afterward. Patients may need someone to accompany them to and from the appointment, as the effects can linger for a few hours.
- IV Sedation: For those with moderate to severe dental anxiety or undergoing more extensive procedures, IV sedation offers deeper relaxation. The sedative is administered directly into the bloodstream, ensuring rapid onset and a profound sense of calm. While patients may remain semi-conscious, they often have little to no recollection of the procedure afterward.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
It depends! The overall cost of sedation dentistry varies based on several factors, including the type of sedation, the procedure’s length, and individual patient needs. Usually, lighter sedation options (i.e., nitrous oxide) are more affordable. In contrast, IV sedation, which requires specialized equipment and monitoring, tends to be more expensive.
Moreover, the complexity and duration of the dental procedure significantly impact the overall cost. Procedures requiring extended periods of sedation will naturally incur higher fees to cover the additional time and resources.
Making Sedation Dentistry Affordable
While sedation dentistry can be an added expense, options are available to make it more affordable. Unfortunately, it may not always be covered by dental insurance, but there are financing options to help manage the cost. For instance, we partner with CareCredit, a third-party financing company that offers flexible payment plans. This allows patients to spread out their expenses into manageable monthly payments, making sedation dentistry and quality dental care more accessible to everyone.
Sedation dentistry provides a valuable option for those who experience anxiety about dental procedures, helping ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience. By understanding the types of sedation available and considering financing options, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.
About the Practice
Long Family Dental is a family-owned dental practice that is dedicated to providing exceptional care, going the extra mile every day to ensure our patients receive the quality treatment they deserve. If you’re seeking calming sedation dentistry options to ease your nerves, we’ve got you covered. You can ask about our services via our website or call (817) 760-2536.