Sedation Dentistry in Gainesville

What's Meant by Sedation Dentistry?

Oral sedation dentistry, also called sleep dentistry, uses a variety of medications to enable relaxation during a dental procedure. Even though it's often referred to as sleep dentistry, you're not asleep unless you have opted for general anesthesia. Sedation dentistry can be used for minor dental procedures such as teeth cleaning or for more invasive procedures such as an extraction or a root canal.

Dental sedation started in the 1800s but has become very popular because it's the least invasive method for dental anesthesia. If you have questions, call our Gainesville office, and we'll be happy to answer them.

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?

As with all dental procedures, there's no set fee for a dental sedation cost because there are too many variables. However, it's generally very affordable, and we'll work with you so you can have the procedures you need at a price that fits your budget.

Sometimes, sleep dentistry is covered by insurance. Sometimes, it isn't. However, sedation dentistry insurance is available through some carriers. We recommend that you contact your provider before your appointment to determine your benefits, exclusions, and provisions, and be sure to ask if your sedation dentistry cost is covered or if it can be. Bring that information with you. Don't delay maintaining good oral hygiene due to finances. We'll work with you so you can afford the good oral health you deserve, so give us a call.

Why Should I Opt for Sedation Dentistry in Gainesville?

Sleep dentistry can enable you to have good oral health without experiencing dental anxiety. Dental anxiety is one of the primary reasons people avoid going to the 
dentist, and poor dental hygiene adversely affects your physical health. So, oral sedation dentistry can benefit your physical health as well as your oral health.

What Are the Types of Sedation Dentistry?

Several types of dental sedation are available. We offer Oral Sedation in our Gainesville office:

• Deep sedation: The dentist administers anesthesia that will make you fall into a deep sleep. You won't awaken until the medication wears off or you're given an antidote.
• IV sedation: If you opt for IV sedation dentistry, you'll receive an IV into one of your veins, and your sedative will be administered through the IV. Your dentist can manually adjust the level of sedation you receive throughout the procedure. 
• Inhaled minimum sedation: Often called laughing gas, this type of dental sedation administers nitrous oxide through a mask. The gas will relax you, and your dentist will control the amount you receive.
• Oral sedation: This is the most common type of sedation and it is what use for your comfort. We administer a pill like Halcion that makes you drowsy. Generally, patients are awake throughout the procedure, but you may become drowsy enough to fall asleep.

Sedation for dental treatment enables you to receive the dental procedures you need without the stress. Call our Gainesville office for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Will My Insurance Cover Dental Sedation?

Insurance may cover sedation for dental treatment. It depends on your individual plan. Be sure to speak to your provider before your appointment so you know your benefits and coverages. Bring that information with you. Sometimes, if a specific sedative is medically necessary, such as IV sedation dentistry, that can make a difference in your coverage.

How Long Will The Sedative Last?

Each patient is unique, so the time it takes for your sedative to wear off will be unique to you. The type of sedation you receive significantly affects the time it takes to dissipate.

Inhaled sedation wears off the quickest, and some patients are able to drive themselves home after their procedure. Other types, such as general anesthesia or IV sedation, can take hours to wear off. Generally, we recommend arranging transportation home if you're having a dental procedure. Driving under the influence can include sedatives as well as alcohol, so don't risk that. If you have questions, call our Gainesville office for assistance.