How much does sedation dentistry cost?

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?

Thanks to the safety and convenience of sleep and sedation dentistry, more people are catching up on their oral health needs than ever before. Not only does “napping” through the visit allow you to relax as much as possible, it also saves you time and money by spending less time away from work or school. But, how much does sedation dentistry cost?

It Depends on the Type of Sedation That You Choose

There are a variety of different types and levels of sedatives used in dentistry. Deciding on the right one depends on your unique health needs, goals, and comfort level. It’s up to you and your dentist to select the one that’s best for you, but here are the most common types offered in modern patient care:

Nitrous Oxide

The most common sedative or analgesic is laughing gas (nitrous oxide), which allows you to be fully conscious yet experience decreased pain sensitivity. Plus, it’s extremely affordable. However, this usually isn’t what people have in mind when they’re considering a sedation procedure. You’ll feel more giggly than actually sleepy.

Conscious Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a step up from inhalation sedatives, but more affordable than deeper IV sedation. Carefully administered by only licensed dental providers, this type of sedation uses prescription strength sedatives that are taken by mouth at the time of your procedure. For children it may be a liquid, for adults it is usually a pill or a combination of pills. Although you will most likely feel as if you slept throughout the entire visit, you will still be partially conscious and able to respond to simple instructions, such as “open wide,” or “turn toward me.” While you’re still semi-conscious, your dentist will continue to closely monitor all of your vital signs.

Generally, oral sedation is considered to be extremely safe for all patients, but it is important to thoroughly review your medical history with your dentist first. It also typically fits the budget needs of most families.

IV Sedation (Sleep Dentistry)

The deepest and most expensive form of sedation used in dental offices is the kind that is administered through an IV. Either the dentist, a licensed anesthesiologist, or nurse anesthetist will administer the medication and monitor your vital signs throughout the entire procedure. IV sedation brings the patient to a level of unconsciousness and keeps them there until the medication delivery is halted. The goal is to prevent the need of having to bring the patient into a hospital or surgical facility to complete the procedure, but even then, this location may be required. This type of sedative is often used in oral surgery centers. As such, it also happens to cost much more to provide it.

Save Money With Sedation Dentistry

Why wait until your dental needs become so complex that they require multiple visits to complete them? With the help of affordable oral sedation, you can play “catch-up” on everything at one time. For more information on sedation options available, or whether or not you’re a candidate for a particular type of medication, contact Summit Dental Center in Houston.