How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
Dental patients searching for a lower-stress alternative to regular dentistry often turn to sedation during their procedure; but how much does sedation dentistry cost? The simple answer is that it can vary significantly depending on the sedation method you choose and how complex the dental procedure is.
Dentists who offer sedation dentistry use different medications to help their patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures. These medications—ranging from mild options to moderate sedation—are game-changers for patients searching for a more tranquil experience during their treatment.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost on Average?
How much sedation dentistry costs on average will depend on several factors including which method you choose, your location, and the length or complexity of your procedure.
Sedation Dentistry Cost Breakdown
The final cost of a given sedation dentistry service will depend on several factors. This means that the price could vary significantly from patient to patient. The price of your sedation will be affected by:
The sedation method you choose: There are four main types of sedation dentistry. Light sedation methods like nitrous oxide or oral sedatives are typically more economical options than deeper sedation options like IV sedation or general anesthesia.
How the dentist charges for sedation: Many dentists charge for sedation by the hour while others charge a flat fee.
The length of your procedure: A longer procedure will incur more costs than a shorter one if the dentist charges by the hour.
Where you are located: Patients will notice differences in pricing depending on the state and area where their dental clinic is located.
Take into account that the following prices are industry averages and only cover the sedation portion of your procedure. Ask your dental team for a breakdown of all the costs involved in a given dental procedure before you commit to treatment.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas" is generally the most economical dental sedation method. Nitrous oxide sedation involves inhaling nitrous oxide through a nose piece or a mask. You will start to feel drowsy and relaxed within a matter of minutes. This method makes you feel calm without losing consciousness. For this reason, nitrous oxide is often used during simple procedures like cavity fillings.
The cost of nitrous oxide will depend on whether your dentist charges a flat rate or by the hour. As a rule of thumb, expect to pay anything from $50 to $150 for nitrous oxide.
Oral Medications
Oral sedation medication is often taken in the form of a tablet or capsule. You will typically take your medication around an hour before your procedure is due to start.
Oral conscious sedation makes you feel drowsy or groggy. For this reason, some patients fall asleep during their procedure. This type of sedation is fairly light, so you will still be able to communicate with your dentist throughout the procedure.
The price of oral medications can vary greatly from practice to practice. Factor in anything from $150 to $500 for orally administered sedation medication.
IV Medications
Intravenous sedation dentistry is a moderate sedation option. During IV sedation, medical staff deliver medications directly to your bloodstream via an IV line. This sedation method has lower risks compared to general anesthesia. However, your dentist will still monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels at all times. You will remain conscious throughout your procedure and the dentist can easily adjust the dosage of your medication as needed.
IV sedation is a great choice for longer or more complicated procedures as it offers a deeper form of sedation than nitrous oxide or oral medications. This means some patients will sleep through the procedure and won't remember their experience. Some patients who suffer from dental anxiety or other conditions that could disrupt the completion of dental procedures choose IV sedation over other sedation methods.
The heightened sense of calm offered by IV sedation comes at a higher price. IV sedation costs between $400 to $900 on average.
General Anesthesia
There are cases in which general anesthesia is the most appropriate sedation method. For example, patients with severe dental anxiety may be offered GA. Dentists will assess patients individually to ascertain whether general anesthesia is the right option for them. This will include an assessment of the patient's BMI, medical history, and any medications they take (page 10 of the linked PDF).
In cases where general anesthesia is recommended, an external anesthesiologist may come to offer the service. The costs associated with this service will differ from doctor to doctor.
Other Factors that Affect the Cost of Sedation Dentistry
Patients will find some variation in costs from clinic to clinic. These variations may be due to:
Your dentist’s expertise and experience: An expert dentist with a proven track record and extensive experience may charge more than a dentist at the start of their career. Cost is a relevant factor when choosing a dentist, but be sure to choose a trusted and reputable dentist who will guarantee the best possible care.
The complexity of your procedure: Some dentists will perform more than one procedure at a time to reduce costs and visits to the clinic. This may extend the length of the time you spend in the chair. In this case, the greater costs are offset by not having to return to the dentist multiple times.
Ensure a Comfortable and Confident Experience
It’s natural to feel a little uneasy when approaching the dentist's chair for a dental procedure. Sedation dentistry offers patients a wide range of different options and price points to make their experience as smooth and anxiety-free as possible.
Remember, medication is only one part of feeling relaxed at the dentist’s office. Choose a dentist who exudes professionalism and heads a team that makes you feel at ease from the moment you walk in the door until your dental procedure is complete.