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You’re not alone if you tend to get nervous when it’s time to sit in the dentist’s chair, but those who are overly anxious may be more likely to avoid making appointments. Unfortunately, skipping routine checkups, cleanings, or other required repairs can significantly damage your oral health.
Many dentists understand that you might be afraid and offer multiple sedation options for people of all ages. But you might them if you’re convinced they’ll be too expensive. Continue reading to learn more about whether insurance will cover the cost and other ways to make this service more affordable!
How Does Dental Insurance Work?
Most of these policies are designed to promote proper prevention to help strengthen teeth and gums, which reduces the likelihood of needing more costly or complex procedures or restorations. As a result, they often include up to 100% of routine services, like checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. Then, they might also cover between 50% and 80% of other treatments needed to protect or preserve your smile, such as root canals, extractions, and dental crowns.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Sedation?
Some dentists offer a variety of medications, such as oral conscious sedation as a prescription pill or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) inhaled through a mask placed over your nose while they work, so that if you aren’t a good candidate for one option, you can still benefit from another.
However, many dental insurance providers categorize sedation as a luxury rather than a necessity to protect your teeth and gums, and don’t cover the cost. But every plan is unique, and there may be exceptions, so it’s worth checking the details of your coverage before your next appointment.
Are There Ways to Make Dental Sedation More Affordable?
If you’re uninsured or your plan doesn’t include sedation options, don’t lose hope! Many dentists understand that these options aren’t always covered, but don’t want your frayed nerves or your budget to hold you back from receiving the quality dental services that you deserve.
If you’re concerned about affording relaxation medications, you can talk with your dentist about different payment options. Many of them offer a variety of ways to help make services more accessible, such as:
- Medicaid & Chip. Some dentists also welcome your family’s Medicaid or CHIP coverage, which sometimes includes different benefits than more traditional dental insurance.
- In-House Memberships. Your provider might also offer in-house memberships for a flat annual or monthly fee. These often cover routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays, and additional discounts on other treatments and procedures.
- Flexible Financing. Many dental offices also accept flexible payment plans through third-party vendors, such as CareCredit or Sunbit. These allow you to select a low- to no-interest option that divides your total invoice into more manageable installments without the same restrictions as more traditional insurance, such as a mandatory waiting period before benefits apply.
If you’re unsure whether you’re a good candidate for dental sedation or want to know more about payment options, your dentist can provide more accurate information that takes your unique circumstances into account!
Meet the Author
Dr. John Kuan is a 3rd-generation dentist who is proudly following in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps to help improve patient’s lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco. Today, he provides a complete menu of services, including dental sedation, using advanced technology for improved comfort and accuracy. He also offers multiple payment options to help make treatments affordable. You can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 723-4000.
