If you’re feeling anxious about your upcoming oral surgery, you may want to consider having some form of sedation dentistry administered; this will help you stay calm and comfortable throughout your procedure. But how much can you expect to end up paying for the sedation? This is a question that needs to be answered before you make any commitments. Below are some important facts about the cost of sedation dentistry.
What Types of Sedation are Available?
Depending on your circumstances, your oral surgeon may recommend one of the following forms of sedation dentistry:
- Nitrous Oxide: This lighter form of sedation involves breathing in a colorless gas mixed with oxygen through a small nasal mask. The effects will wear off within minutes once the nitrous oxide stops being administered, so it won’t be long before you feel normal again.
- IV Sedation: The sedative is delivered straight to your bloodstream, quickly inducing an advanced state of relaxation. Your oral surgeon and their team can adjust the flow of medication as needed for your comfort and safety.
- General Anesthesia: Unlike other forms of sedation dentistry, general anesthesia actually puts you to sleep. This is generally a good option for patients who are extremely anxious or planning on having a particularly lengthy procedure planned.
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Sedation Dentistry?
The answer to this question varies from patient to patient. For one thing, the type of sedation matters. Nitrous oxide sedation is generally less costly than IV sedation and general anesthesia. On top of that, the specific practice you go to and its geographic location can have an impact on the amount you end up paying.
It should be noted that dental insurance often does not cover sedation dentistry, as many insurance companies view it as a luxury service. However, there are exceptions. In particular, some insurance plans do help pay for sedation if it is being used for a particularly complex treatment (which often includes many forms of oral surgery). It may be worth getting in touch with your insurance company to clarify how sedation dentistry is typically handled.
If you’re not sure how to fit sedation dentistry into your budget, it may be a good idea to apply for CareCredit financing. With the right CareCredit plan, you can pay for your treatment in installments that are right for you.
Sedation dentistry can help you have a more positive experience at the oral surgeon’s office. Before you commit to any procedures, make sure you’re aware of what forms of sedation are available – as well as the price tags attached to them.
About the Author
Dr. Timothy Gutierrez went to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center for his residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He has previously served as president of the New Mexico Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He offers different forms of sedation dentistry to help his patients stay as comfortable as possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Gutierrez at Nob Hill Oral & Facial Surgery of Albuquerque, visit his website or call (505) 881-7373.