How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
Some estimates today have approximately 30 to 40 million Americans that will avoid seeing their dentist due to some level of dental anxiety or dental phobia. Not visiting the dentist on a regular basis is not a viable option. After all, your mouth, your teeth, your gums; they are the gateway portal to all of your nutrition. Why would you neglect an area of your body with such importance. There are different types of sedation dentistry that can be used to negate the level of anxiety that you experience. The cleveland sedation dentistry costs will vary accordingly.
The Different Degrees of Dental Sedation
The first level is light sedation, or medically called Anxiolysis. The most common method of sedation to achieve this light level is inhaling nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. The second level of moderate conscious sedation is achieved with an increased amount of nitrous oxide, an oral sedative, or the introduction of an IV sedative. You will be conscious and can respond to any commands but you will be in an extreme state of relaxation. The third level of sedation is a deep state where you are on the edge between conscious and unconscious. This can be achieved with an increased amount of the intravenous sedative. The final degree of sedation requires general anesthesia where you are totally unconscious. This final level is used most with oral surgery.
The Range of Costs for Sedation Dentistry
The range can go anywhere from an additional $50 for some nitrous oxide to around $600 for intravenous sedation. Each and every patient is different based on their age and even their physical size. It can also vary based on the length of the procedure and the additional sedation needed to complete the procedure. The other factor of course is the level of anxiety and the amount of sedation necessary to negate it. Another source has a range of $250 to $900 for IV sedation, going from still being conscious to becoming unconscious.
Candidates and Qualifications for Sedation Dentistry
Are you qualified to ask your dentist for some sedation? Having some level of dental anxiety is a great starting point. If you can’t sleep before a dental appointment or get sick to your stomach you have anxiety. But other factors can contribute. If you have sensitive teeth or have had difficulty in the past getting numb with local anesthetics. If you have complex dental issues or have a fear of needles sedation dentistry might enhance your experience. If you have had dental trauma in the past you have developed an anxiety about that trauma being repeated. Time can be an issue if you have a limited amount of time to get the procedure completed. Finally, if you have a disease that impedes the controlling of your movements or motor skills sedation dentistry can relax you such that involuntary movements don’t interfere with the procedure. With these options available today schedule a consultation with your dentist to address your level of anxiety and what level of sedation might be best for you. With the technology available today don’t let your feelings get in the way of proper oral hygiene and care.
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