Is Sedation Dentistry Worth the Cost?

Sedation dentistry is a big factor in the evolution of dental procedures and treatment. It allows doctors to perform complex operations and patients, even those with dental anxiety, to sit still for a long period of time and not feel the pain.

More and more Americans are choosing sedation dentistry for almost every procedure they have, opting in and paying the cost of the sedation from their own pocket. In fact, for many, sedation is not included in their insurance policies list of covered medical procedures.

Is Sedation Dentistry Truly Worth the Cost?

Even if your insurance company pays for the actual part of the treatment, paying for your dentist visits can be an option. The cost of the sedation will depend on the type of sedatives used, the form of administration and how easy it is to recover from it.

When you have an extensive procedure ahead, it makes sense that you look for little aids to make the time spent in the dentist’s chair more comfortable, whether it is wearing comfortable clothes, being hydrated and rested, listening to music, and so on. However, sedation is what truly makes a difference as it deals with feelings of anxiety, impatience, pain, fear and all the negative feelings that you associate with the dentist or with the anticipation of pain in general.

For patients like children, disabled persons, those with special needs or those suffering from severe anxiety, sedation may be the only way they can receive treatment. That’s a big deal since we all know that oral health is crucial and has an impact on our overall health levels.

When you ask yourself if dental sedation is worth the cost, these are the factors to take into consideration and discuss with your dentist:

• Is it a lengthy procedure that will pin you to the chair for hours?
• Do you have a low pain threshold?
• Do you suffer from anxiety, panic attacks, or have a phobia associated with the dentist?
• Do you have a physical condition that makes the sitting position uncomfortable?
• Are you the guardian of a small child who needs extensive dental treatment?
• Are you the guardian of a mentally disabled person who needs treatment?

Depending on how you answer these questions and how complex the dental work itself will be, you can decide if sedation is necessary. However, if you can afford it and you qualify for it, then you can opt for dental sedation just to make the dentist visit more pleasant.

Before you make any decision, talk to an experienced sedation dentist about the different methods of sedation available. The decision will not be primarily based on the costs, but on your body and the treatment plan.

If you want to find out more about dental sedation, ask your doctor about it during your next appointment.