Things to Know About Sedation Dentistry
Most people feel anxious about dental visits. You’re never sure what the dentist will find, whether it’s a small cavity, or something more serious. And then, there’s the bill. Sometimes, that’s enough to create anxiety. If you put off dental appointments because you experience extreme anxiety while in the dental chair, talk with your dentist about options to help you feel calm. Many offices offer general sedation dentistry in Houston, TX. Read further to find out if sedation dentistry might be an option for you.
Why Would a Person Need Dental Sedation
For people who experience dental anxiety and/or dental phobia, seeing the dentist is a frightening experience. Many of these patients avoid the dentist at all costs. While it’s natural to feel some anxiety about visiting the dentist, it’s not normal when fear is exaggerated and overwhelming. People who suffer from dental phobia have a fear not only of the dentist, but often, they’re afraid of the office and the dental equipment. This is a serious condition. There are several dental sedation techniques that can help people with these conditions so they’re able to get regular dental care.
Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry may not be the ideal solution for everyone, but it might be the answer for you. There are several situations that can be helped with sedation dentistry. If you have severe dental anxiety or have had past traumatic dental experiences, sedation can help. Many patients are fearful of needles, especially in the mouth area. For some people, local anesthesia doesn’t work very well and they experience problems with getting numb. If any of this sounds familiar to you, you may be a candidate for sedation. It’s best to speak with your dentist to find out if this is an option for you.
What Happens While I’m Sedated
Sedation dentists use a variety of dental sedation techniques to help patients relax and have their dental needs taken care of without experiencing anxiety. You and your dentist will discuss the extent of your anxiety and come up with a sedation plan. You may just need an oral sedative, which is given 30 minutes to an hour before your appointment. Your dentist may suggest intravenous (IV) sedation or nitrous oxide sedation. Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas is used to induce relaxation. None of these provide pain relief, so you will also get a local anesthetic injected into your gum. You won’t be unconscious but will be relaxed. General anesthesia does cause the patient to be totally unconscious; however, dentists only use it for oral surgery, not to relieve anxiety.
How Much Does It Cost
The cost of general sedation dentistry in Houston, TX, depends largely on your dental insurance coverage, and of course, your dentist. Your fees may range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Each sedation method has its own cost. If your dentist uses light sedation, which includes oral sedatives or nitrous oxide gas, you may be charged anywhere from $225 to just over $300. If the dentist determines that you need something more extensive, such as I.V. sedation, the costs will be higher. Another thing to remember is that the cost for sedation is separate from the dental procedure. If you’re having a tooth filled, you will be charged for the filling and the sedation. It’s always best to talk with your dentist as they can give you all the information needed to make a wise choice.