Do you suffer from dental anxiety or have a low pain threshold? These and so many other reasons may make you a suitable candidate for IV sedation dentistry in Shreveport LA. But what does it cost? Are there any procedures for which it is required? Read on and get answers to these, and other related questions about IV sedation dentistry.

How Much Does Dental Sedation Cost?

As is the case with all fees in medicine, your insurance company is a key factor in giving you a quote for different medical and dental services. Remember, Shreveport’s dentist has multiple convenient payment options, including a zero interest in-house savings plan. You will certainly find a plan that is suitable for you from among those available here.

As for cost, IV sedation costs $400 in Shreveport LA if you aren’t insured (and will, therefore, payout of pocket). However, this fee is for patients who aren’t medically complex. Those who are medically complex, such as those with other preexisting medical conditions, require extra attention, and an anesthetic nurse will be needed to assist during the sedation. The extra staff needed during the procedure raises the cost, and you can typically expect to pay $600 an hour.

Not every dentist has been certified to provide IV sedation in Shreveport LA, and Dr. Ben Kacos is one of the four who have this certification in the area. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment for an assessment of what level of IV sedation or any other kind of sedation that may be necessary for you. This initial consultation is free, so take full advantage of it.

Are There Dental Procedures That Require IV Sedation?

Shreveport’s dentist explains that there isn’t a dental procedure for which IV sedation is a requirement. However, there are many procedures for which patients have indicated that IV sedation gives them the kind of comfort that they desire. These procedures include dental implant placement, wisdom tooth extraction, tooth extraction, and many other surgical, dental procedures. Remember, you can talk to Dr. Kacos about IV sedation regardless of the procedure you are due to undergo if this sedation will give you the level of comfort you need.

What to Expect When Undergoing IV Sedation

When you search for “IV sedation near me” and find Shreveport’s dentist, you can expect several things during your appointment to undergo IV sedation dentistry. First, plan to have someone drive you from your appointment and stay with you for a few hours at home until the IV sedation wears off.

Dr. Kacos will also inform you that you should refrain from eating anything during the six hours before your IV sedation dental procedure. However, you can drink a minimal amount of water as you take any medication that you are currently taking.

During the procedure performed by Dr. Ben Kacos, you will not feel any worry or pain since you will be unaware of everything happening around you. Many patients have no recollection of their dental procedure conducted under IV sedation.

After the procedure, you will be placed in a wheelchair and escorted out of the office to your waiting vehicle. This step is necessary because the sedation temporarily affects your coordination and balance, which is why you are advised to have a driver to take you home.

IV Sedation vs. General Anesthesia

Sedation has many levels on a continuum which has light/mild sedation at the lowest end and general anesthesia at the extreme end. The use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is an example of the lowest form of sedation. IV sedation falls somewhere along that continuum between mild sedation and general anesthesia.

When you undergo a procedure after being given IV sedation, you remain awake but unaware and comfortable. In this state, it is possible for you to respond to external stimuli, such as when someone taps you on the shoulder or speaks to you. This is similar to what can happen when you take a nap. However, when you receive general anesthesia, you are unconscious and are unable to respond to any stimulus.

Ready for your first sedation dentistry procedure? Contact Shreveport’s dentist and schedule a consultation. Any other queries you have will be addressed, and the level of IV sedation you require will be determined before the procedure is scheduled.