Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Following are some of the most frequently asked questions about the different types of sedation dentistry (nitrous oxide / laughing gas, oral sedation dentistry / conscious sedation dentistry, and IV sedation dentistry).
If you have any further questions, contact a sedation dentist in Dallas.
Are other people afraid of the dentist?
Yes, more than you might imagine. An estimated 50% of the population doesn’t see a dentist on a regular basis, in part because of dental anxiety.
What’s the benefit of sedation dentistry?
The greatest gift of sedation dentistry is that it allows people to undergo dental treatment without pain, anxiety, or fear. That’s especially important given that neglecting your dental health can have serious consequences with your overall health. For example, studies have linked periodontal (gum) disease with diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes. Sedation dentistry gives people a stress-free way to return to the dentist and to good dental health.
Laughing gas, oral sedation, or IV sedation – which one is right for me?
The type of sedation that’s right for you will depend on your health history, the dental procedure being performed, and your level of anxiety or fear. A sedation dentist can thoroughly explain all of the options, and together, you can choose the one that’s best for your circumstances.
I have trouble getting numb – does that mean I should try sedation dentistry?
Perhaps. Nitrous oxide, (laughing gas), in combination with Novocain, is typically effective for most patients. If that level of sedation isn’t enough, you still have the options of oral sedation, or in an more extreme circumstances, IV sedation.
Why do they call it “sleep” dentistry?
Oral sedation, which is sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” is actually a form of conscious sedation. In other words, you are awake and conscious during the entire procedure, but time passes incredibly quickly, and more than likely, you’ll have no memory of your time in the chair.
What if I want to get a block of dental work done all at once?
IV sedation is perfect if you haven’t been into the dentist in a long time and need extensive restorative work, or if you’re electing to have a smile makeover. This type of sedation dentistry allows you to complete a block of treatment in one visit, instead of splitting the treatments over multiple visits.
Will the charge for sedation be covered by my dental insurance plan?
That depends, but in some cases, yes. Reimbursement for all types of dental services varies by company, not just in Dallas, but across the United States. Most often, however, the fee for sedation is covered only for extractions, surgeries, and extensive treatment.
Should someone drive me home from the dentist, if I’m going to be sedated?
With oral sedation and IV sedation, yes. You’ll need someone to pick you up from the dental office and stay with you for two to four hours after you’ve completed treatment.
If you have any further questions about nitrous oxide sedation dentistry, oral sedation dentistry, or IV sedation dentistry, please call the office of one of the sedation dentists who practices in Dallas, Fort Worth, Carrollton, Grand Prairie, Arlington, Garland, Irving, Mesquite, Richardson, Plano, and Addison, Texas.
