If the prospect of going to the dentist instills fear or anxiety in you, you are not alone. Millions of people dislike the sights, sounds, and sensations they experience in a dental office. You might have thought about asking to be sedated during your procedures; with the right dose of medication, your next treatment could be a breeze! But how will sedation affect the financial aspect of your care? Does insurance cover sedation dentistry? This blog post explains what you should know.
Insurance Does Not Usually Cover Sedation
Sadly, many dental insurance policies regard sedation as something that is purely elective. They view it as a luxury rather than a necessity, so it is usually not covered. They reason that if they covered sedation, they would have to raise premiums for everyone.
Of course, there are some exceptions to the rule. Some premium plans might cover sedation in certain circumstances. You can call your policy provider to gain a better understanding of how your benefits might apply.
Coverage Can Vary
Insurance is more likely to cover sedation if:
- You need to undergo an invasive or extensive procedure.
- You have a medical condition that would make it impossible for you to receive dental care without the aid of sedation.
Do not assume that your policy will cover sedation in any given situation. Ask your dental team if they can help you determine how your insurance covers sedation so you will know exactly how much you will be expected to pay out of pocket.
Affording a Healthier Smile
If you need help to afford sedation, let your dental team know. They might offer to help you apply for CareCredit, which can allow you to pay for your treatment over time in affordable monthly installments.
It is also important to keep in mind that sedation can be an excellent way to save money. It can make you feel comfortable enough to get necessary treatment in a timely manner. You can therefore prevent dental problems from worsening to the point where they would require more expensive procedures.
Dental sedation is not usually covered by insurance, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take advantage of it! It could be the key to helping you achieve a healthier, happier smile!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Bryan Griffith has treated thousands of cases with the aid of oral conscious sedation, so he has seen firsthand how it can positively impact patients’ lives. He and our team also understand that many people are operating on a tight budget, so we do what we can to provide excellent care at a reasonable price. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact our Prestonsburg office at 606-874-9311.