When you discovered sedation dentistry, it was a game changer for you. Appointments have since become much easier and more relaxed, but in these troubling economic times, you may find yourself looking for ways to save money. Is sedation really something you should cut?
Although sedation can cost a couple of hundred dollars, in this post, you will learn about how sedation can help you save more in the long run and how your dentist determines the cost of sedation.
Why Sedation Is Worth the Cost
In an effort to save money, you may consider not getting additional sedation when you go to the dentist’s office. Unfortunately, for those who experience dental anxiety, sedation enables them to get necessary dental work done. Without it, many patients put off dental treatment, increasing their risk of serious and more expensive problems down the road. Overall, it will ultimately save you more to be treated early with the help of sedation dentistry than to wait and be treated for a more costly issue later.
Variables Affecting the Cost of Sedation Dentistry
When calculating the price for sedation, your dentist considers several factors, but the most important is the type they choose for you. Some dental practices utilize multiple forms of sedation, and each comes with its own cost. Nitrous oxide, which is the gentler option, tends to be more cost effective. Other forms, such as oral conscious sedation, usually cost a little bit more because it requires filling a prescription at the pharmacy.
But how does your dentist decide which one is best for you? They consider the following.
How Heavily Sedated You Want or Need to Be
Depending on how deep your dental anxiety runs, nitrous oxide might not be enough to make you feel completely comfortable. For many patients who take advantage of oral conscious sedation, this medication has an amnesiac effect, meaning they do not remember details from their visit even though they stayed awake the entire time. Be honest with your dentist about your anxiety to help them determine which method would best suit your needs.
The Length of Your Treatment
Certain procedures take longer than others. If you are receiving sedation for a considerable amount of time, it makes more sense to use oral conscious sedation rather than nitrous oxide. Not only is this medication more powerful, but it also lasts for several hours, ensuring comfort throughout lengthy procedures. On the other hand, if you are getting routine care, the less costly nitrous oxide may be the way to go.
In the end, if sedation will motivate you to see the dentist and make your dental appointments more enjoyable, it is worth paying the extra fee. If you are concerned about the cost, have an open discussion with your dentist. Your smile is worth making room in the budget.
About the Practice
For decades, Pioneer Greens Dentistry has served the Lincoln area. Dr. Justin Shirk is taking over the practice, but Dr. Chris and Dr. Claire Haag are continuing to see patients during this transition. Although Dr. Shirk has the advanced training to treat serious problems, he encourages early intervention and prevention whenever possible. We offer oral conscious sedation as well as nitrous oxide to patients who struggle with dental anxiety or phobia. Do you have questions about sedation dentistry? Contact our office online or call 402-483-7502.