Sedation Dentistry in Boynton Beach
Does the thought of visiting an oral surgeon stress you out so much that you avoid having necessary work done? Some people will avoid having a small cavity filled because the sound of the drill is too much for them. The small cavity will then grow into a much larger, more painful problem that can't be avoided. It will also be more expensive to treat.
What is Sedation for Dentistry?
Your oral surgeon can administer sedation to help you feel relaxed and calm during dental procedures. Sometimes, it is also called sleep dentistry, but you won’t be completely asleep, like you would under general anesthesia. You may feel comfortable enough to doze off. There is also deep sedation, where you will fall asleep. Dental professionals usually reserve this for invasive or very long procedures. Naturally, you’ll also still receive something to numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain.
What is a Common Sedation Dentistry Cost?
The sedation dentistry cost relies on which sedation is chosen and how long the procedure lasts. You can discuss your estimated cost for laughing gas, sleep dentistry, or IV sedation dentistry with your oral surgeon before having any work done.
Does Sedation Dentistry Insurance Exist?
There is no specific insurance for sedation. However, most insurance companies cover it if it is used during a major procedure where sedation is necessary. You should speak to your oral surgeon about this beforehand. If you want sedation and it is not covered by insurance, please talk to our staff about your payment options. Don't hesitate to ask, many people have at least some level of anxiety about visiting a dentist.
Why Do Dentists Use Sedation for Dental Treatment?
Dentists use sedation or sleep dentistry to make treatment easier for patients with dental anxiety. Sedation lets people maintain their oral health without undo stress. If you are curious about sedation to help you get the dental care you need, please call us to make an appointment.
What Are my Options for Sedation Dentistry in Boynton Beach?
Your oral surgeon is the ideal professional to talk to about your options for sedation. You may have the choice of:
Nitrous Oxide - Nitrous oxide, which people often call laughing gas, is the most common form of sedation and safe for both children and adults. You enter a euphoric state and lose all sense of time. You will inhale the gas through a mask over your nose. It's ideal for getting cavities filled and other minor procedures, and it will certainly lower your anxiety. The gas stops working almost immediately after the mask is removed. Laughing gas is an affordable option for short procedures, like having a cavity filled.
Oral Sedation Dentistry - Oral sedation dentistry is where you take medication prescribed by your oral surgeon about an hour before you have your procedure. It could be Halcion, Valium, or another medication. You'll still be able to understand requests from your dentist, but you'll feel very relaxed. You may fall asleep, but can wake easily.
IV Sedation Dentistry - If you're wondering, IV sedation dentistry is exactly what the name implies. Your oral surgeon administers sedation through an IV line. You'll probably have no recollection of the procedure.
Deep Sedation - With this type of dentistry, you'll fall sound asleep. This is usually reserved for major or very lengthily procedures.
How Does Sedation Benefit People With Dental Anxiety?
The primary benefit is that sedation allows people who would otherwise skip dental care to get the treatment they need. Dentists like people who are willing to admit they have anxiety because sedation allows the patient to relax and have a much better experience. The oral surgeon can work faster and often finish a procedure in one office visit, instead of two office visits. Of course, dentists don't want their patients to feel uncomfortable in any way either. Patients who have no fear of dental visits will have regular exams and maintain good dental health by having small problems taken care of and not let them turn into major problems.
How Long Does Sedation for Dental Treatment Take to Wear Off?
It depends on what type of sedation you have. Laughing gas wears off almost instantly. You can drive home afterward or go back to work. Oral or IV sedation sedation dentistry takes longer to wear off. You should plan for someone to drive you home. You should take the rest of the day off and not drive anywhere. Have everything you need, like medications and safe foods to eat in your house. If you have real sleep dentistry, you also have to get a ride home. If possible, have someone stay with you to help you that day.
If you are interested in learning more about our sedation dentistry in Boynton Beach, call our office today to schedule an appointment.