Are you looking for a way to get over your dental anxiety? Sedation dentistry could be the answer you’re looking for; it helps you stay relaxed during your dental appointment so that you can get the care you need without your fear getting in the way. But when it comes to paying for sedation dentistry, you’ll probably be wondering whether or not the cost will come out of your own pocket. Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance? Here are the facts.
Is Sedation Dentistry Covered by Dental Insurance?
Unfortunately, most dental plans do not include coverage for sedation dentistry. This is because dental sedation is elective, similar to teeth whitening and other cosmetic treatments. Typically, dental insurance will only pay for treatments that are considered medically necessary; optional services like dental sedation are considered luxuries and thus ineligible for coverage most of the time.
It’s worth noting that every dental insurance company has different rules about what they will or will not pay for. It’s worth double-checking your dental plan to see if it might partially cover the cost of sedation dentistry. The team at your dentist’s office can review your plan with you if you’re not sure that you fully understand your coverage.
Are There Any Exceptions?
There are certain circumstances where your dental insurance might be willing to pay for sedation even if they normally wouldn’t. Such circumstances include:
- Treatments that have been delayed or spaced out due to the patient’s anxiety.
- Situations where the use of sedation will lower the total cost of treatment.
- Medical conditions such as autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy that make sedation dentistry a requirement for performing dental work.
- Complex procedures such as having multiple teeth surgically extracted.
If you call your insurance company, they can give you more details about situations where they may cover sedation.
How Can You Pay for Sedation if Insurance Won’t Cover It?
How can you fit sedation dentistry into your budget without insurance? Your dentist will be more than happy to help you explore your options. One popular choice is third-party financing; instead of paying the full cost of care all at once, you can break it into smaller monthly installments that are easier to manage. Many dental offices work with popular financing companies like CareCredit and LendingClub, which both offer a variety of plans with low to no interest.
Whether sedation dentistry is included under your insurance or not, it can be well worth the cost if it helps you conquer your dental fears. Reach out to your dentist’s office today to see what types of sedation they offer as well as what kinds of payment options are available.
About the Practice
At Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center, Dr. Art Mowery, Dr. Kim Mowery, and Dr. Luis Rodriguez combine their expertise to bring Gainesville patients advanced dental services in one convenient location. We’re proud to offer IV sedation that can make even complex treatments comfortable and stress-free. To schedule an appointment with us, visit our website or call (352) 332-6725.
