Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Following are some of the most frequently asked questions about the different types of sedation dentistry (IV sedation dentistry, oral sedation dentistry / conscious sedation dentistry, and nitrous oxide sedation dentistry / laughing gas).

If you have any further questions, contact a sedation dentist in Phoenix.

Which type of sedation dentistry is right for me?
That’s a question that’s best answered after a consult with a sedation dentist. Generally, though, it depends on how anxious or fearful you are and what type of procedure is being performed. Nitrous oxide is the lowest level of sedation dentistry, with IV sedation dentistry being the highest level.

Is sedation covered by dental insurance?
In some cases, sedation will be covered by your dental insurance, primarily with extractions or major dental treatment. Reimbursement varies, however, from dental insurance company to dental insurance company, and that holds true not just in Phoenix, but across the United States.

What are the advantages to sedation dentistry?
The primary advantage is that sedation allows you to relax enough to be treated by a dentist, which is important. Study after study has linked dental health to overall health, so it’s important that you take good care of your teeth and gums.

What’s the difference between “sleep dentistry,” “conscious sedation,” and “oral sedation” dentistry?
These are all terms that refer to the same type of sedation. You take a pill at the beginning of your appointment and “sleep” through your treatment, even though, ironically, you’re conscious. Time passes by at an amazing rate, and you’ll probably have no memory of your appointment afterward.

Does anyone need to accompany me to my dental appointment, if I elect to have sedation dentistry?
That depends on which type of sedation dentistry you choose. You can drive yourself home after having had laughing gas / nitrous oxide, although it’s recommended that you sit in the waiting room until you feel fully alert. With IV sedation dentistry and oral sedation dentistry, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for two to four hours to make sure that you don’t have any adverse reactions.

If you have any further questions about nitrous oxide sedation dentistry, oral sedation dentistry, or IV sedation dentistry, please call the office of one of the sedation dentists who practices in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Peoria, Chandler, Sun Valley, Glendale, or Queen Creek, Arizona.

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