Sedation dentistry is a more relaxing way to receive dental care. Sedation may be administered in different forms, but the goal is the same: a comfortable, stress-free experience.
If you have an upcoming dental appointment and you’re interested in sedation, you may be wondering how much it will cost you on top of the procedure itself. Here’s what you can expect in terms of the cost of sedation dentistry in Bardonia, New York.
Average Cost of Sedation By Type
The following forms of sedation may be used for dental procedures:
- Nitrous oxide: $50-$100. Nitrous oxide is a gas that you breathe through a mask placed over your nose. As you breathe it in, a calm and relaxed feeling comes over you. You may experience a tingling sensation in your fingers and toes and a heavy feeling in your limbs. It takes effect in minutes and wears off just as quickly once you start breathing regular room air.
- Conscious oral sedation: $150-$500. An oral sedative can be prescribed for you to take before your appointment so that it has time to take effect. You may feel sleepy or groggy while under sedation, but you will still be conscious. You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment with conscious oral sedation.
- IV sedation: $500-$1,000. Intravenous (IV) sedation is administered through a needle placed in your arm or hand. This type of sedation provides a much deeper level of sedation. Although you are technically conscious and responsive while under IV sedation, you most likely won’t remember anything about the procedure. You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment with IV sedation.
Insurance may cover sedation in some cases depending on the situation. Refer to your insurance provider and plan for information about sedation coverage.
Which Type of Sedation Should I Choose?
The type of sedation that is best for you depends on the situation and your personal preference. Factors to consider:
- Invasiveness of the procedure. Some dental procedures may be invasive enough that IV sedation may be appropriate, while others may be performed with lower levels of sedation, or none at all.
- Your level of comfort. If you are nervous or anxious about your procedure, sedation can make it less intimidating. The type of sedation that would be best for you may depend on your level of comfort.
- The recovery period. The use of sedation during dental procedures can mean that you will need more time to recover. It takes a few hours for the effects of conscious oral sedation and IV sedation to wear off, requiring you to rest for the remainder of the day. But nitrous oxide wears off in a matter of minutes with no additional recovery time necessary. You can resume your normal daily activities immediately following your procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Can you still feel pain when under conscious sedation?
Sedation does not necessarily eliminate pain, but it can make you less aware of it. Local anesthesia is still used in addition to sedation in many cases to ensure your comfort.
How long does it take for sedation to wear off?
The effects of nitrous oxide wear off in just a few minutes of breathing room air. The effects of conscious oral sedation can take a few hours to wear off, and IV sedation may take even longer. The deeper the level of sedation, the longer it may take to feel normal again.
Is Sedation Dentistry Worth It?
The additional cost for your peace of mind is most often worth it for patients. To feel relaxed rather than stressed out or anxious is a valuable resource. Hudson Valley Periodontics & Implantology provides a variety of sedation options to help you feel comfortable during your procedure. We have seen the benefits of sedation in numerous cases and highly recommend it when appropriate.
Call 845-623-6666 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.