For millions of patients across the U.S. and abroad, the thought of sitting in a dental chair is beyond uncomfortable. If this sounds like something you struggle with, sedation dentistry can help. But if you need to use it at every appointment, the cost could begin to add up. So, will dental insurance cover it? Continue reading to break down how dental sedation works, what it costs, and how to make the most of your dental benefits.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses safe, calming medication to help patients stay comfortable during dental procedures. It ranges from mild relaxation techniques, like nitrous oxide (AKA, laughing gas), to deeper sedation through oral medication or an IV. While the method may differ, the result is the same—a deepened state of relaxation that dulls your senses.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?
For some patients, sedation is the only way they can make it through an appointment, so the expense is unavoidable. Over time, this extra fee can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Luckily, while most dental insurance plans consider sedation an “elective” service—meaning it’s not automatically covered—there are exceptions. You may be eligible for partial or full coverage if you:
- Have a severe dental phobia or anxiety disorder.
- Need extensive or complex dental treatment.
- Have a condition (like a strong gag reflex or movement disorder) that makes it difficult to receive care without sedation.
- Are a patient with special needs who can’t safely stay still for treatment.
In these cases, your dentist can often document medical necessity, improving your chances of receiving coverage.
Making Sedation Dentistry Affordable
Even if your insurance doesn’t cover sedation, you’re not out of luck when it comes to making your treatment more affordable. In many cases, dentists partner with financing platforms like CareCredit, Cherry, Proceed, and Lending Club—to name a few.
These companies will cover the cost of your treatment and allow you to split the balance over multiple months, often with little or no interest. So, even if you couldn’t normally fit sedation into your budget, you could spread out the expense to save your wallet and your smile.
Sedation dentistry can transform how you experience dental care in a big way. Whether or not your insurance covers it, the investment often pays off in terms of comfort and health. If you’re considering dental sedation, talk to your dentist about your options and take the first step toward stress-free visits.
About the Practice
Many patients are surprised to learn that dental insurance doesn’t always cover the full cost of sedation. At Smile Keepers, we believe comfort should never be out of reach, which is why we work closely with patients to review benefits, explain coverage, and offer flexible payment options. Our goal is to make every visit as stress-free as possible. Call (979) 830-5022 to schedule a consultation and discuss sedation dentistry, or visit our website to learn more.