Are you frightened of sitting on a dentist’s chair? Well, you are not alone. There are millions of Americans who are afraid of dental procedures and this stops them from receiving routine, but necessary, dental care. Thankfully, there is sedation dentistry now available for such patients and those who have certain medical conditions that prevent them from seeking the right dental care. However, even here cost plays a major factor in people deciding whether to seek sedation dentistry. So, how much does sedation dentistry cost?

Before we delve into the cost, let’s understand what is sedation dentistry and whether it is right for you.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry, as the name suggests, uses sedative drugs and medications to make you feel relaxed and calm during the dental procedures. The dentists who offer this form of dentistry use tranquillizers, nitrous oxide, depressants and anti-anxiety medications which are administered in a number of different ways. Today, you can choose different methods of sedation, right from inhalation of nitrous oxide to IVs and even no-needle sedation.

Oral sedation is the most common technique used in the United States to calm patients down and quell their fears. It is easy and does not use needles. This is what makes it so appealing for patients. It makes the dental procedure a comfortable experience. However, this technique maintains some level of consciousness to ensure patient’s safety and cooperation.

Regardless of the type of sedation you choose, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to block pain impulses from the affected tooth or part of the gum. This anesthesia is given usually after the patient is sedated. So, don’t worry about getting the injection in your mouth, as you will not feel anything or even remember the needle prick!

When choosing sedation dentistry, it is important you bring along a caregiver, who can drive you home after your dental procedure and also stay with you for an hour or two after you reach home. A small price to pay for beautiful, healthy teeth and gums!

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?

The cost of sedation dentistry depends on the type of sedation used. For most patients, it is an out-of-pocket expense, as most insurance providers do not cover it. However, if you have are afraid or anxious of visiting the dentist, you shouldn’t have a problem paying for the sedation. At least you can rest easy knowing your teeth, gums and mouth will always be healthy and function normally.

This brings us back to the question - how much does sedation dentistry cost? Here are the average costs, which will vary from dentist to dentist and also geographically.

• Inhalation Sedation: This is in the form of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. It is the least expensive form of sedation. Some dentists offer this sedation free, while others charge for it. Cost should not exceed $100.
• Oral Sedation: The cost will depend on the type of oral sedation the dentist uses. It could be tranquillizer, sedative, or anti-anxiety medication. The medication can be used as standalone sedation or can be given along with nitrous oxide. The average cost of oral sedation is between $200 and $400.
• IV Conscious Sedation: This is as far as a dentist can go without administering general anesthesia. Administering this type of sedation requires specialized training. Because it involves risks and is a specialized sedation procedure, it costs more. The average cost is between $500 and $800.

Now that you know on an average, how much does sedation dentistry cost, you should also know that every dentist will have his own pricing. If you require dental work or a checkup, don’t let your phobia get in the way. Instead, speak to your dentist about sedation dentistry and ask for an estimate. This way you will have a ballpark figure and know how much you are expected to pay. Remember, many dentists offer financing options and this will reduce the burden on you. What do you think? Do you want healthy and functional gums and teeth or do you want your dental phobia to ruin your smile and oral health?