Tag Archives: Plano TX sedation dentist

Sedation Dentistry

Will sedation dentistry legislation require insurance companies to provide more benefits?

My sister lives in California and has been raving because she says there’s a law there requiring insurance companies to cover sedation dentistry. She and I both had terrible experiences as children and don’t do well for any kind of dental procedure unless we have some kind of medication to get us through. This is big news because we’ve always had to pay out-of-pocket for it, and we don’t have the best teeth. I’ve looked and looked, but I don’t see anything that discusses this law- either as something in place or upcoming. Any news?

Thanks, Emilia

Dear Emilia,

Head and shoulders photo of a man and woman lying in a field of flowers, for information on sedation dentistry from Plano TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.California has some incredibly progressive laws in many respects. Many regulations originate in California before they are adopted in other states. California Assembly Bill 2643 amends Section 1367.1 of the Health and Safety Code and Section 10119.9. SB 2643. It outlines a number of regulations that have to do with “the use of general anesthesia, conscious sedation, and oral conscious sedation (OCS) for pediatric and adult patients.”

  • The current language of the laws stipulates that dental anesthesia only has mandatory coverage in a hospital setting. As you probably know, there are many people who genuinely require anesthesia, but don’t need to go to a hospital for treatment.
  • The proposed legislation would force new insurance plans to cover it effective January 2019.
  • The proposed law is being sponsored by the California Dental Association and California Society of Pediatric Dentistry. It is not yet approved. If passed, it could make a major difference for people like your sister who lives in California.

Sedation Dentistry and Insurance

Throughout the rest of the country, coverage for any form of anesthesia or OCS varies based on the insurance policy. While most insurance companies recognize that OCS makes it possible for many people to receive treatment,  manage their oral health better, and possibly reduce expenses for insurance companies overall,  most insurance companies are reluctant to add sedation dentistry as a necessary and valuable benefit.

It sounds as if you’ve personally made your oral health a priority and have found a way to budget for it, which is commendable. Patients who are still trying to find a way to manage dental anxiety and get necessary treatment may be able to find a plan that specifically covers OCS. It is worth noting that very few offer coverage and when they do, it can be costly.

As an alternative, it’s helpful to speak with your dentist about what your anxiety and finding affordable dental treatment. Most dentists will work with you to overcome the issues, perhaps by doing as much work as possible in a single appointment or doing the work in phases. Your dentist may have additional solutions.

This blog is sponsored by Plano sedation dentist, Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Sedation Dentistry

Pain and sensitivity after sedation dentist filled 2 teeth

Last week I saw a sedation dentist and got 2 teeth filled. It was so hard for me to keep a dental appointment because of my anxiety. After learning about sedation dentistry, it gave me the courage to do something about my teeth. My understanding from the Internet is that sedation helps you relax and it makes the pain less intense. I received the fillings because I thought they would fix the pain and sensitivity in my teeth, not cause more of it. The pain and sensitivity haven’t gone away and this is a huge disappointment. What’s going on? Am I going to need to have the fillings redone? Bahja

Bahja – Sedation dentistry does relax you and decrease the pain during a dental procedure. Sensitivity and pain after a tooth filling are normal. For the first 24 hours after having cavities filled, you should avoid hard or sticky foods that can irritate your teeth or cause the filling to dislodge.

Sedation dentistry can make getting cavities filled easier

As the nerves in your teeth calm down, sensitivity should gradually diminish. You will find that foods or drinks that are hot or cold will increase sensitivity in your teeth. If you had deep tooth decay that might have been close to a nerve, it is not unusual to feel pain and increased sensitivity, and it can take up to four weeks for the sensitivity to go away.

If you notice that you have pain only while you are chewing, it is possible that the fillings in your teeth are too high. Another indication that a filling is too high is that it will prevent the biting surfaces of your teeth from closing together. If you are experiencing either of these issues contact your sedation dentist’s office.

This post is sponsored by Plano female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Sensitive Teeth

Sedation dentist did work without my consent

About two months ago, I began seeing a new sedation dentist because I have dental anxiety and need a lot of dental work. On my first visit, the doctor did the exam and discussed all the treatment. We settled on oral conscious sedation for all my work, with the exception of the days I was only getting crowns cemented. I sat down with the front office person and we mapped out a schedule, with a certain amount of work to do at each visit. The sedation visits were scheduled two months apart to allow me time to budget between them. I already had enough money set aside for the first one, so I scheduled that right away. They insisted that I sign forms in advance and prepay it, saying that I couldn’t legally agree to anything while I was medicated. That actually gave me some comfort. I felt like I was in control and felt like I could trust what they were doing.

Nothing remarkable happened the day of my appointment. I took my medication. I mostly slept through the appointment. My sister took me home after and I slept the rest of the day. But the next day, the office manager called me and told me the “good news.” The doctor had been able to work in three more fillings for me, so they were calling for payment. First, I didn’t agree to fillings. I didn’t even know they were doing them. I don’t think that teeth were filled without my consent, especially since they insisted that prior to sedation I would agree to all dental treatment for that visit. Secondly, I don’t have the money to pay for the fillings. We structured the appointments according to my budget. I talked to the office rep about my concerns. She told me they wouldn’t be able to cement my crown until my bill is paid in full, and that, by signing my full treatment plan, I was agreeing to the work. She also belittled me and told me I shouldn’t have scheduled the appointment if I couldn’t pay for the work. I am so upset I don’t know what to do. Can they do this?!?

Marla

Marla,

No dentist, whether a sedation dentist or general dentist, should do any work without consent from the patient or guardian. Assuming you’re a legal adult, the consent would need to come from you. As far as having you sign the treatment plan as consent for fillings, it really depends on the wording of the document you signed.  Most of the time, the agreement is related to finances, not for specific treatment.

Resolving the Issue with Your Sedation Dentist

  • Your best option is to speak directly to the sedation dentist who treated you. Let him or her know what happened.
  • If this is a reputable doctor, he or she will try to correct the situation.
  •  Ideally, that means not billing you for the fillings and cementing your crown without any additional costs. If not, this may be something you’ll have to report to your local dental board and/or a lawyer.
  • We recommend that you find a new sedation dentist. This should not have happened to you, and it’s an incredibly rare occurrence. Please don’t let your experience prevent you from completing your treatment. You’ll likely have a much better experience if you get referrals from family and friends or read online reviews before selecting a new dentist.
  • You can schedule consultations with at least two dentists before choosing a new provider.

This post is sponsored by Plano female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

 

Sedation Dentistry

Afraid of being sedated by a new dentist but I need 2 crowns

I know that sedation dentistry is probably the best thing for me, but my current dentist doesn’t offer it. I just can’t relax in her office. It’s not her. It’s me.

I have to switch dentists because she doesn’t offer sedation. I need 2 new crowns and I’ve put it off for too long. Now there is a problem of letting a complete stranger sedate me. It’s part of my fear and I know that I am going to have to get over it. There has to be a first time.

What can I do to get over the fear of having a new dentist sedate me? I don’t want to go into the office and make a fool of myself because of my fear. Thank. L.E.

L.E.

Sedation dentists are used to seeing fearful patients, so don’t worry how your anxiety will be perceived by the dentist or their staff. Your anxiety is common among millions of Americans.

How to Choose a Sedation Dentist

  • Before you choose a new sedation dentist, have consultations with a few dentists who have been recommended by friends or family members, or with whom you think you may be comfortable.
  • Speak with each dentist about your fears. Find out what he or she does to help anxious patients relax and what levels of sedation are offered.
  • Meet the staff, take an office tour, and become familiar with the office.
  • After you have chosen a dentist, if you are still very uncomfortable, continue to ask questions and talk about your concerns until you feel comfortable. Don’t proceed with getting dental crowns before you are comfortable.

Receiving sedation will be easier if the dentist is no longer a stranger to you and you know what will be done to help you relax and have a pain-free experience.

This post is sponsored by Plano female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

Sedation Dentistry, Wisdom Teeth

Can I refuse sedation dentistry with wisdom teeth removal?

I need to have all of my wisdom teeth pulled and I don’t want sedation. I haven’t seen a dentist recently, but I know it’s my wisdom teeth that are hurting and the pain is getting worse. Before I go in I want to know if sedation is necessary or just something the dentist will try to convince me to get. I don’t like people doing anything to me medically or otherwise without me being fully aware of what’s going on. I am not afraid of the procedure. I just want to be full aware and awake. Can you tell me if sedation is standard for wisdom teeth removal or can I go without it? Thanks Brooklynn

Brooklynn – It’s good that you recognize that dental care is needed for your wisdom teeth. Whether or not you need sedation dentistry depends on the condition of the teeth and their roots. Wisdom teeth are especially painful when they are impacted.

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of oral health issues, including those listed below:

  • Damage neighboring teeth
  • Become infected, and in some cases form a cyst that affects nerves, other teeth, your jaw, and facial muscles
  • Become difficult to clean and promote bacteria and gum disease
  • Bacteria can enter your bloodstream and affect your organs, including your heart and kidneys

You will receive an anesthesia evaluation. Local anesthesia will definitely be administered. Your dentist or oral surgeon is concerned about your comfort during wisdom teeth removal. If the removal of the teeth is anticipated to be complex or time consuming, sedation dentistry might be recommended.

There are various levels of sedation:

  • Nitrous oxide
  • Oral conscious sedation
  • IV sedation dentistry

Before you decline sedation, ensure you understand what to expect during the procedure. Ask the dentist about what you will be able to hear, see, and feel more intensely than you would without sedation. It’s your right as a patient to accept or decline care, but sedation dentistry can make the removal of impacted wisdom teeth a much more pleasant experience.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

Oral Health, Sedation Dentistry

Will osteoporosis prevent me from getting sedation dentistry?

I have osteoporosis and I think sedation dentistry might help me get some issues with my teeth taken care of. I’m just concerned that sedation might make my condition worse. I have difficulty sitting for extended periods, so if sedation is going to keep me in the dental chair longer than I should be, that’s a concern too. The thought of falling from being drowsy also scares me. Do patients with osteoporosis get sedation dentistry? Is there anything I need to consider before I ask for it? Valeriya

Valeriya – As you know, osteoporosis decreases bone density and makes bones very fragile. It can affect your oral health.

Osteoporosis Affects Oral Health

The disease can affect any bone in your body, including your jawbone. It creates oral health risks including:

  • Decreased jawbone density and affecting the stability of your teeth.
  • Triggering periodontal (gum) disease
  • Increased risk of needing dentures

Sedation Dentistry Can Help

Your oral health needs more attention than usual. Sedation dentistry can help you get the dental care you need. Before you receive sedation, your dentist will determine if you’re a candidate for it.

Your medical and prescription history will be thoroughly reviewed. Your dentist may want to collaborate with your medical doctors to take necessary precautions and to determine which form of anti-anxiety medication is best for your needs. Most patients are candidates for sedation dentistry even if they have other medical conditions.

Speak with your dentist about your concerns with sitting in the chair too long. He or she will schedule multiple visits, if necessary, to ensure your comfort.

What can you expect after receiving sedation dentistry? It’s important to closely follow after care instructions to prevent injury.

  • You will still be drowsy.
  • The dental office should have a wheel chair ready to take you to the car. You won’t have to worry about falling and breaking fragile bones.
  • You will have arranged for transportation home, and that person or another responsible adult should stay with you for the rest of the day.
  • Rest in bed or on the sofa, and limit your activity around the house. Someone should assist you with necessary tasks to prevent you from falling.

Your dentist will work with your and your doctors to limit the effects of osteoporosis on your oral health. With proper screening and planning, sedation dentistry can help.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

 

Oral Health, Sedation Dentistry

How long should a dental cleaning take and why aren’t they sedating me?

I want to know why my dentist isn’t sedating me. My past 2 dental cleanings took almost 2 hours. The first time it took so long that my underarms were soaked and my shirt was wet. It was the craziest experience. My gums were bleeding and when the hygienist rinsed my mouth and told me to suck on that straw thing to dry my mouth, I almost gagged. So did she! I heard her make a gagging sound. At the end of the appointment she and the dentist told me I have gum disease so I have to floss more often and I need to go back more often to get my teeth cleaned. I’ll do whatever it takes to get rid of gum disease but what is taking so long with these cleanings? I only have 23 teeth, so what is the problem people? Last week I went back again and this 2nd appointment took almost 2 hours again. This time neither of us gagged. Maybe that’s improvement… Is the time involved normal? And with all of this bloody mess and my soaked underarms after the appointment why are they not sedating me? How long should a dental cleaning take? Thanks. Geoff

Geoff – Your concern about the length of your dental cleanings and your level of anxiety without sedation are understandable. And your dentist should provide you with the answers.

Average Time for a Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning for a patient who has good oral health and maintains excellent oral hygiene at home takes about 30 to 40 minutes. The time can vary, depending on the condition of your teeth and the hygienist’s speed. Keep in mind that when you receive a dental cleaning, more is involved than just cleaning and polishing your teeth:

  • X-rays are taken.
  • Your hygienist will check the space between your teeth and gums for signs of periodontal (gum) disease.
  • Your dentist will also need to examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral cavities to ensure they are healthy and disease free.

The “extras” are necessary to help you maintain good oral hygiene. And they naturally add more time to your dental visit. But let’s discuss what might be taking your appointment so long and why you aren’t being sedated.

What’s Taking So Long?

So what’s affecting the time it takes to clean your teeth? Several factors might be involved:

  • The condition of your teeth – A professional dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. The amount of plaque and tartar buildup is related to how often you brush and floss your teeth. The more you floss between your teeth, the less plaque and tartar there will be. Stains can develop from everyday eating and drinking, but if you smoke, or if you are a heavy coffee or tea drinker, your teeth will have more stains.
  • Periodontal (gum) disease – When the pocket, or space between each tooth and the surrounding gum tissue, is infected, the gum tissue pulls away from your teeth. Deep periodontal pockets need to be thoroughly cleaned to get rid of gum disease. This process, scaling and root planing, is a deeper cleaning than normal and takes more time. In cases of severe periodontal disease, a specialist (periodontist) might be needed.
  • Your anxiety level – It takes a little more time and patience to provide dental care for anxious patients. If your dentist and hygienist know you’re anxious, they will work at a slower pace to ensure your comfort and to take time to explain what’s being done throughout the dental procedure. Some dental professionals do this regardless of a patient’s anxiety level. Sedation can help make dental cleanings easier for you.

Why Aren’t You Being Sedated for Your Dental Cleanings?

Perhaps your dentist and hygienist haven’t noticed your sweaty armpits. Maybe it’s not that noticeable to them, or maybe they need to be more observant. Have you explained how nervous you’re getting with the lengthy dental cleaning appointments?

Your periodontal disease needs to be well controlled, so it’s time to let your hygienist and dentist know just how much the cleaning appointments are affecting you. Ask for sedation so you won’t start to dread your appointments—and possibly start skipping a few.

Your dentist should work with you to provide a level of sedation that matches your anxiety and the length of your dental appointments. If he or she isn’t responsive enough to your anxiety, it might be time to look for another sedation dentist.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Sedation Dentistry

What should I say to my dad so he’ll take me to a sedation dentist?

I have a tooth that I think is rotten and I want to see a sedation dentist. I haven’t been to the dentist much in life because my dad’s job doesn’t always give good dental insurance to employees. For the past 2 years they didn’t offer it. My tooth hurts on and off and since January it has been hurting more consistently. I told my dad about the toothache and he keeps saying that he needs to get me to a dentist but he isn’t doing it. One of my classmates went to a sedation dentist to get her wisdom teeth out and I am thinking that’s what I need to get this tooth pulled. I don’t know if I can even mention a sedation dentist to my dad but I am thinking that maybe if I say the right thing to him that I can get some action. I am afraid that my tooth is rotten and is going to mess up my other teeth. What should I say to help my dad know this is serious and I might need a sedation dentist? Thanks Emilee

Emilee,

We’re sorry that you’re having increasing pain in your tooth that isn’t being addressed. Please save a link to this page or print the page for your parents to read.

If your tooth is hurting and appears to be rotting, it’s important to get it treated right away. Preventive dental care will protect your oral health and prevent a tooth infection from spreading to other teeth, your gums and jawbone, and possibly into your bloodstream.

A dentist will need to examine your tooth first. If the tooth is treated quickly, it might not need to be extracted. A root canal treatment can be used to remove the infection and save your tooth.

If your parents are concerned about the cost, there might be state-provided dental care for families with limited income. Some dentists will offer discounted care or provide your parents with a payment plan.

If you suffer with dental anxiety you might need a sedation dentist, but if you’re not nervous about dental appointments, sedation might not be necessary. A dentist will examine your tooth and let you know if local anesthetic is enough to treat it or if sedation is really needed.

If you still can’t help from your parents for seeing a dentist right away, please talk with your school guidance counselor.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

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