Common Questions

• The dental work I need isn't all that complicated, but even small procedures scare me. Can I still have IV sedation?
• What measures do you take to insure safety?
• Can I have all of my dental treatment done in a single visit?
• I've got a medical condition. Does that mean I have to have my procedure in the hospital?
• Can I eat or drink before being sedated?
• Should I take my regular medications that day?
• What about after sedation? What can I eat or drink then?
• Will I be able to drive home after sedation?
• What if I'm pregnant?
• How does IV sedation compare to laughing gas?
• I'm getting dentures. Do I have to leave the office with no teeth?
• What is the cost of IV sedation?
• Is sedation covered by insurance?
• What payment options do you provide?
• Is it possible for my child to be sedated?

The dental work I need isn't all that complicated, but even small procedures scare me. Can I still have IV sedation?

Yes. Anyone who feels a need for IV sedation - even for a routine cleaning - can have it, as long as he or she is medically qualified.

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What measures do you take to insure safety?

Safety is our highest priority. Before sedation, we review your medical history and perform a careful physical exam. Throughout the procedure, we monitor your breathing, heart, and blood pressure. We have backup for all our equipment, and two highly-trained assistants are in the treatment room at all times.

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Can I have all of my dental treatment done in a single visit?

Sometimes you can. This is determined on a per patient basis depending on your needs. We have had some complex treatment plans require as many as 7 IV sedation appointments. IV appointments are usually limited to approximately 3 hours whereby we will complete as much of your treatment as is reasonable.

An estimate will be given with a breakdown of treatment and costs on a per appointment basis if this is appropriate for your needs.

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I've got a medical condition. Does that mean I have to have my procedure in the hospital?

If your medical condition is under control by your physician, chances are good we can treat you in our offices. We will evaluate your situation carefully in coordination with your physician.

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Can I eat or drink before being sedated?

You should have nothing to eat or drink for 5 hours in advance.

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Should I take my regular medications that day?

Yes, with a small sip of water.

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What about after sedation? What can I eat or drink then?

Afterwards, you can eat or drink anything you want except alcohol, which should be avoided for 24 hours.

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Will I be able to drive home after sedation?

No, you will need someone to drive you home. You should not operate a car for 24 hours.

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What if I'm pregnant?

IV sedation for elective procedures is not recommended for pregnant women.

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How does IV sedation compare to laughing gas?

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) helps you relax, but IV sedation is deeper, more reliable, and more easily adjusted to fit each patient's needs.

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I'm getting dentures. Do I have to leave the office with no teeth?

No. Unlike most offices, we will provide your dentures at the same visit as removing your teeth.

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What is the cost of IV sedation?

It ranges from $400 - $600 in addition to the cost of your procedure.

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Is sedation covered by insurance?

Quite often it is, depending on your policy.

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What payment options do you provide?

If your insurance company provides certification beforehand, we will accept insurance payments. Otherwise, payment is due at the time of service. We accept credit cards.

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Is it possible for my child to be sedated?

For safety reasons, we will not sedate children under 13 years of age.

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