What To Know About Dental Sedation

For some people, a simple visit to the dentist is a major source of anxiety. For those who have a phobia of going to the dentist or who experience a lot of anxiety during their appointments, dental care can be a challenge. However, regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups are key to having healthy teeth and gums. Failure to go to the dentist can mean painful dental problems. The good news is that dental sedation services can help if you experience anxiety at the dentist's office. Here's what you should know about dental sedation.

Different Levels of Sedation Are Available

The first thing that you should be aware of when it comes to dental sedation services is that different levels of sedation are available. With minimal sedation, you are relaxed but still awake. With moderate sedation, you are also awake but you may not remember the procedure. With deep sedation, you will be on the edge of consciousness while with general anesthesia you will be entirely unconscious throughout the procedure. The level of sedation needed will depend on your anxiety levels and the procedure being performed.

Methods of Sedation

When it comes to dental sedation, different methods are used depending on the patient and the procedure being performed. Laughing gas is a form of mild sedation that uses nitrous oxide gas to relieve anxiety. This is the most common form of sedation used and you are awake the whole time. Pills and liquid medicines can also be used, often in addition to laughing gas, in order to reduce your anxiety. This is considered moderate sedation. Deep sedation is usually accomplished through IV sedation where the sedative is injected intravenously. General anesthesia is used if you need to be unconscious for the entire procedure.

The Cost

The cost of dental sedation will vary depending on the level of sedation used. Laughing gas typically costs between $25 and $100. Oral sedation will typically range between $150 and $500. Moderate to deep sedation procedures will typically range between $500 and $700. General anesthesia typically costs between $300 and $1,000 in total. Typically, dental insurance will cover the dental procedure being performed but dental sedation is typically not covered by most policies. It's important to discuss the cost of sedation before getting a dental procedure.

When it comes to dental sedation, there are a few things to know. First, there are varying levels of sedation available ranging from light sedation where you are completely awake to deep sedation. There are also different methods used for sedation dentistry. Costs can vary greatly depending on the level of sedation needed and the type of sedation used.