It’s not uncommon for patients to feel nervous about visiting the dentist’s office. Unfortunately, for many individuals, past dental trauma, a sensitive gag reflex, or the inability to sit still because of a physical disability makes invasive and even minor treatment nearly impossible. However, with the help of sedation dentistry, essential dental care can be provided, but how much does it cost? Read on to discover why investing in this type of additional service is worth it, especially if you want to avoid higher out-of-pocket expenses in the future.
What Factors Determine the Price of Sedation Dentistry?
When it comes to determining how much sedation dentistry will cost, you must recognize that each has a different price tag. Generally, there are various factors that your dentist will consider before creating a more formalized estimate for you to review. These include:
- The type of sedation you receive (i.e., nitrous oxide, oral conscious, and IV).
- The duration of your procedure, as those that last longer will likely require more sedation, so the price will be higher.
- The location of your dental practice.
- The dentist’s expertise, meaning are they specialized to administer certain methods of sedation? If so, it may cost slightly more.
- The complexity of your dental procedure.
Will Dental Insurance Cover the Cost?
There is no definite answer as to whether dental insurance will cover a portion of the cost because each plan is different.
In certain situations, various plans will offer some level of coverage if the procedure is meant to address a medical condition, if you have a physical disability that prevents you from receiving necessary dental care, or if the dentist deems sedation necessary.
The cost will vary, though, so it’s important to review your plan beforehand and speak to a representative about the details of your policy. You can also ask your dental team for help if you prefer they work on your behalf with your insurance company.
Why is Sedation Dentistry Worth the Investment?
Whether your dental insurer agrees to pay a portion of the bill associated with your sedation or not, it is still a worthwhile investment. The reason is that forgoing treatment or continuing to put it off will only lead to more serious symptoms – the kind that requires costlier and more invasive procedures.
By investing in sedation, you can reduce the number of times you need to see your dentist. This is especially helpful should you require multiple treatments to be performed in a single visit.
Taking a chance on your oral and overall health is not a good idea. Instead, moving forward with treatment and receiving the sedation you need will likely save you more money in the long run. It might also change the way you think about visiting the dentist, allowing for improved oral health in the future.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington opened his practice in 2002 and has been helping Castle Rock residents achieve healthier smiles ever since. He and the team at Cowlitz River Dental understand that visiting the dentist can be a challenge for some individuals, which is why he is pleased to offer three methods of sedation dentistry – nitrous oxide, oral conscious, and IV. If you think you might benefit from anxiety-free dentistry, visit our website or call (360) 703-9092.