Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Below are some of the questions patients ask most frequently about the three types of sedation dentistry (IV sedation dentistry, oral sedation dentistry / conscious sedation dentistry, and nitrous oxide sedation dentistry / laughing gas).

If you have additional questions, please contact a sedation dentist in Austin.

Which type of sedation dentistry is best for me?

Depending on your level of fear and/or the dental procedure and its complexity, you could benefit from IV sedation dentistry (which is general anesthesia), oral sedation dentistry (which involves taking a pill and is also known as “sleep dentistry” and “conscious sedation dentistry”), or nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas). An experienced sedation dentist can outline the benefits of each and help you choose the type that’s right for you.

Does dental insurance cover sedation dentistry?

Some dental insurance policies cover sedation dentistry, for some procedures. Most commonly, sedation is paid for when it’s used for extractions or complex dental treatment, such as restorative work.

What’s the advantage of sedation dentistry?

The main benefit to sedation dentistry is that it can enable you – without fear or anxiety – to visit a dentist.

What types of patients use sedation dentistry?

Patients choose to use sedation dentistry for many different reasons, including: severe dental anxiety or phobia, fear of needles, strong gag reflexes, a physical disability that makes it hard to tolerate treatment, and the desire to complete complex treatments in one visit instead of several.

If I elect to use sedation dentistry at my next visit, will I be “conscious”?

You’ll be conscious if you choose laughing gas / nitrous oxide or oral sedation dentistry, but not if you elect to use IV sedation dentistry.

If I undergo sedation dentistry, will I need to arrange for transportation?

With oral sedation dentistry (also known as sleep dentistry and conscious sedation dentistry) and IV sedation dentistry, you’ll need someone to take you home and stay with you for 2-4 hours while the sedative effects of the medication wear off.

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 Austin, Round Rock, Manor, Cedar Park, Buda, Westlake, Leander, Hutto, Barton Creek, Lakeway, or Pflugerville, Texas