Dental Sedation in Joplin, MO
Dental anxiety affects children and adults alike, and many patients put off or avoid visiting the dentist entirely due to anxiety. At ADC Dental Group, we want to help anxious patients relieve their anxiety so that they can get the care they need and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. To learn more about our sedation services, please contact us!
Contact Us
What are my options for dental sedation?
ADC Dental Group offers two choices for sedation: nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.
- Nitrous oxide is a blend of clear, sweet-smelling gases that are administered through a nose mask and put the patient into a relaxed, happy state.
- Oral conscious sedation involves taking prescription medication before an appointment to feel drowsy and less aware of what is happening during the treatment.
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is often ideal for patients who:
- Have dental anxiety or fear
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Need multiple procedures completed in one visit
- Have difficulty sitting still for long periods
- Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
Are there any side effects that come with dental sedation?
Dental sedation usually does not come with many side effects other than feeling a little tired or out of it after the appointment. In some cases, patients may experience side effects like dry mouth, headache, nausea, or dizziness, but these effects should be mild and dissipate within a few hours. If you are ever concerned about your recovery process or have any questions for our team, you are more than welcome to contact our office.
Can I drive myself home after receiving dental sedation?
Patients who receive nitrous oxide can typically drive themselves home after their appointments, as the effects of laughing gas usually wear off within a few minutes of breathing normal air. You are also welcome to wait in our lobby for a little while until you feel totally comfortable driving. Patients who undergo oral conscious sedation must have a friend or family member stay during their appointment and drive them home afterward.
Is dental sedation safe?
Before our team adds dental sedation to a patient’s treatment plan, we always review the patient’s medical history, current health status, and the services they’re receiving to determine which sedation option is best for them, if any. Patient safety is our top priority, and we only want to provide dental sedation for patients who want to utilize it to help with their dental anxiety and have more relaxed and pleasant experiences in the dental chair.
Will my insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Insurance coverage for sedation dentistry varies depending on your specific plan and the reason sedation is needed. Some insurance providers will cover sedation if it is considered medically necessary, such as for oral surgery, complex procedures, or patients with severe dental anxiety or special needs. In other cases, sedation may be considered elective and involve an out-of-pocket cost. Before your appointment, our team will gladly review your benefits and explain any expected costs so there are no surprises on the day of treatment.
Is sedation dentistry only for major procedures?
Sedation dentistry is not limited to major treatments like extractions or oral surgery. Many patients choose sedation for routine procedures such as fillings, crowns, cleanings, or exams because it helps them feel calm and relaxed throughout the visit. If you experience dental anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, or simply feel nervous in the dental chair, sedation can make even simple appointments much less nerve-wracking. Your comfort is a priority, and our Joplin dental team wants you to have the most stress-free dental experiences possible.
Can children receive sedation dentistry?
In certain cases, children can safely receive sedation dentistry. Sedation may be recommended for children who experience significant dental anxiety, have difficulty sitting still, or need extensive treatment completed in fewer visits. Before recommending sedation, we will carefully evaluate your child’s age, health history, and specific dental needs to determine the safest and most appropriate option.
Contact Us