Sedation Dentistry

Basics of Dental Sedation

Commonly called “sleep dentistry,” sedation dentistry allows patients to calm their fears and relax while receiving dental treatment. This branch of dentistry includes general anesthesia, IV sedation dentistry, and oral sedation dentistry. It may also involve the use of gas as a milder form of sedation.

Sedation Dentistry Cost

Sedation for dental treatment is fully personalized to meet your needs. The sedation dentistry cost will depend on which treatment is used, and how much medication is required. If you have questions about the cost of sedation dentistry in Gainesville, give our office a call.

Reasons for Dental Sedation

Patients with dental anxiety use sedation methods to ease the fear of going to the dentist. Sedation is also effective for reducing pain and gagging during dental procedures. Most importantly, sedation allows patients to receive the care they need in a comfortable environment.

Types of Dental Sedation

Our dentists administer an array of sedation options to suit your needs. Options for dental sedation include:

• Inhaled sedation dentistry: The mildest form of sedation, inhaled sedation involves the use of laughing gas to relax the patient. You’ll breathe in the gas through a mask placed over the face.
• Oral sedation dentistry: During oral sedation, the dentist gives you medication that you’ll take through the mouth. Halcion and Valium are popular options, which cause you to become relaxed and drowsy.
• IV sedation dentistry: IV sedation dentistry involves administering medication to the bloodstream through an IV. The medication will work quickly, allowing you to relax.
• Deep sedation dentistry: This form of sedation includes general anesthesia, which induces a deep sleep. You will not be conscious throughout the dental procedure.

Benefits of Dental Sedation

A proven technique for reducing patient stress, dental sedation offers a host of benefits. It allows you to relax while the dentist restores your teeth, and it can stop discomfort due to a weak gag reflex. Sedation for dental treatment also reduces pain experienced during the procedure. To find out if sedation dentistry in Gainesville is right for you, give our office a call.

Insurance Coverage for Sleep Dentistry

Much like tooth whitening or other cosmetic procedures, sleep dentistry is considered a luxury by many insurance providers. If the sedation is medically necessary, your provider may offer coverage. Before receiving treatment, be sure to call your provider to learn about your sedation dentistry insurance options.

Sedation Dentistry Treatment Time

How long sedation lasts largely depends on the type of sedative used. Milder sleep dentistry treatments, like laughing gas, wear off much faster than more intensive sedation. Some patients are able to drive after mild treatment. However, you may require a friend or family member to take you home if you undergo moderate or deep sedation.