Does the thought of going to the dentist make you anxious or fearful? You aren’t alone at all – millions of people put off dental care each year due to dental-related anxiety, but fortunately, sedation dentistry is a solution that can help. However, many patients have financial concerns when it comes to any sort of care, and it’s normal to wonder how insurance will fit into the equation. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It can range from mild sedation to deep sedation, depending on the patient’s needs as well as the complexity of the treatment. It tends to be a great option for patients who:
- Have dental anxiety or phobia
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Require multiple or lengthy procedures
- Struggle with sitting still for extended periods
- Have a low pain threshold
One common type of sedation used often in dentistry is nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, which is a colorless, odorless gas inhaled with a mixture of oxygen. It helps patients feel calm and relaxed, and it wears off very quickly. Oral conscious sedation is another common type, which involves prescribed medication that’s taken before the appointment so that its effects have kicked in by the time of your treatment.
Will My Dental Insurance Plan Cover Sedation Dentistry?
In many cases, dental sedation is considered an elective or luxury service, meaning it may not always be fully covered by standard dental insurance. Nitrous oxide is normally the most affordable type of sedation, but many plans do not cover it unless there’s a documented medical need. Similarly, oral conscious sedation is only considered medically necessary for certain patients or in certain circumstances, like oral surgery. You should always check your benefits and familiarize yourself with the specific details of your plan.
Remember, sedation dentistry can be incredibly impactful when it comes to dental care – so if you believe it’s something that’ll help your smile, you shouldn’t shy away from asking your dentist about your options and reviewing any possible benefits or other means of making it more affordable.
About the Practice
Our team here at Zumbro Family Dental has proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in the Rochester area for several years, offering a wide range of services, including sedation dentistry. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (507) 322-1210.
