What is the Cost of Sedation Dentistry?
The cost of using general anesthesia for sleep dentistry ranges from $400 to $600 per hour. This covers the expense of the administered drugs and recovery time. On average, patients can expect to spend approximately $500 per hour, in addition to the cost of the dental treatment provided. The overall cost is primarily determined by the duration of the dental procedure. Generally, the longer and more extensive the dental work required, the lower the hourly rate.
The Advantages of In-Office General Anesthesia
In-office general anesthesia has proven to be an invaluable and cost-effective solution for phobic patients, those who fear the dentist, individuals with behavioral or medical challenges, as well as individuals who struggle with gagging problems. By utilizing sedation dentistry, these patients can now receive the dental care they need with ease.
Why is it Worth it
Sedation dentistry brings a sense of calm, relaxation, and tranquility during dental procedures. It offers a moderate level of sedation, allowing patients to stay technically awake yet feeling completely at ease. Each sedation method offers its own benefits, specifically targeted for different situations. For patients who find dental procedures uncomfortable, sedation dentistry provides a wide range of advantages that they might not have considered before.
Relief from Anxiety
One of the most remarkable aspects of sedation dentistry is its ability to alleviate anxiety in even the most nervous patients. This enables them to undergo dental procedures comfortably, removing a major reason why people tend to avoid visiting the dentist. Anxiety can manifest on a spectrum, with some patients experiencing mild pre-procedure nervousness while others become completely overwhelmed by the fear of potential pain or complications. Unfortunately, this fear often leads many individuals to forego essential dental care. However, anesthesia significantly benefits individuals with heightened anxiety levels, offering them the opportunity to receive treatment without unnecessary stress.
Anterograde Amnesia
While amnesia may not always be desired, in sedation dentistry, it can be truly beneficial. Many people’s fear of visiting the dentist stems from unpleasant childhood experiences, and this fear tends to intensify with each subsequent visit, especially if discomfort is involved. However, sedation dentistry prevents the accumulation of fear and phobia because the mind is unable to form new memories during the procedure. This can effectively minimize the fear associated with dental visits.
Ease the Gag Reflex
Although a gag reflex is necessary to protect our throat, it can become troublesome when undergoing dental procedures. Sedation dentistry temporarily paralyzes the gag reflex, allowing dentists to work more efficiently and reaching deeper areas of the oral cavity. This means less discomfort for you during the procedure.
Experience Pain Relief
Nobody enjoys tooth or gum pain, and dental fears are common. The good news is that sedation dentistry eliminates pain completely. By using powerful sedatives and anesthetics, your brain won’t register any painful sensations. Pain-free dental care is a top priority for many, making sedation dentistry an appealing option.
Efficiency for Both Patient and Dentist
With sedation dentistry, you won’t be squirming in the chair, and the dentist can work without interruptions or concerns about your reaction. This leads to faster and more efficient procedures, allowing you to get out of the chair and onto the road to recovery sooner.
Don’t let nerves hold you back from much-needed dental work. If you’re feeling anxious, sedation dentistry might be the ideal solution. Trust us, it’s definitely worth it!