While quality dental care is essential to maintaining one’s good health, many people experience severe anxiety or nervousness at the thought of seeing their dentist. Thankfully, sedation dentistry can make it much easier for these individuals to sit calmly and comfortably through their oral care appointments, and it can also help people with strong gag reflexes or difficulty sitting still. Here’s a brief guide to a few forms of sedation dentistry and how much they can cost.
Nitrous Oxide Can Help Your Fears Subside
Dentists have used nitrous oxide to help patients remain calm and comfortable during treatment for nearly two hundred years, and in that time it has shown itself to be a safe and effective form of dental sedation without any lingering side effects. Also called laughing gas, this compound is mixed with oxygen and fed to the patient’s nose through a hose, resulting in a sense of calm and relaxation that quickly fades away after the sedation treatment ends. Within fifteen minutes after you stop receiving nitrous oxide, you should be free from dizziness and ready to drive yourself home.
Oral Conscious Sedation Can Give You a Sense of Relaxation
Nitrous oxide is not a great option for everyone, especially those who are pregnant or who have congested noses. If your dentist determines that oral conscious sedation is the best way to help you relax during treatment, they will prescribe an appropriate anti-anxiety medication and instruct you to take it briefly before you begin your next dental treatment. By the time you are in your dentist’s chair, you should experience a sense of calmness and well-being. However, you will need a trusted individual to drive you home afterward, as the aftereffects can last for several hours.
How Much Can Sedation Dentistry Cost
Nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation are generally used to relieve anxiety and prevent discomfort during routine dental appointments and common procedures such as dental fillings. They typically cost between $200 and $300, and their price will be noted on your bill in addition to any dental treatments you receive while sedated. More intensive forms of sedation typically cost much more.
Dental sedation has allowed millions of people to enjoy pleasant dental appointments despite severe anxiety. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best sedation solution for your budget.
About the Practice
Smile Fitness Dental Centers offers the finest oral healthcare available in Phoenix. Led by Drs. Douglas M. Gordon, Bernard M. Florento, Joseph A. Santoro, and Dositej Stulic, the staff ensures that each patient receives courteous service and genuine compassion in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as dental sedation. To learn more about how the team can help you stay comfortable during treatment, contact the office online or dial (623) 303-0967.