In most cases, yes, but you should always check with us first. During your consultation, bring a complete list of all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Some medications can interact with sedation drugs or affect how your body processes them.

For many routine medications—like blood pressure pills or thyroid medication—we’ll tell you to take them as usual with a small sip of water before your appointment. However, certain medications like blood thinners or diabetes drugs may need to be adjusted.

After your procedure, you can typically resume your normal medication schedule unless we give you different instructions. We’ll provide clear written guidance about this before you leave. Senior adults often take multiple medications, so we’re especially careful to review everything and coordinate with your physician if needed.

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help you relax during dental procedures. The medication affects your central nervous system to reduce anxiety and create a calm, comfortable state. Depending on the type of sedation, you might feel mildly relaxed or deeply drowsy.

With nitrous oxide, you breathe in the gas through a small mask, and it takes effect within minutes. The gas reduces anxiety and can slightly dull pain sensation while keeping you fully aware. We can adjust the amount throughout your procedure.

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed pill before your appointment. The medication absorbs into your bloodstream through your digestive system and creates a deeper level of relaxation. Most patients feel drowsy and peaceful, though you remain conscious.

IV sedation delivers medication directly into your bloodstream for the fastest, most controllable effect. Dr. Burton or Dr. Spencer can adjust the level of sedation throughout your procedure to keep you comfortable. While you’re in a sleep-like state, you can still respond to instructions.

Most adults and senior adults should see the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and exams. These regular visits help us catch problems early when they’re easier and less expensive to treat. Prevention is always better than waiting until something hurts.

However, some patients need more frequent visits. If you have gum disease, a history of cavities, or certain medical conditions like diabetes, we might recommend coming in every three to four months. Senior adults sometimes benefit from more frequent checkups since aging can affect oral health.

If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of anxiety, sedation dentistry can make those regular visits much easier to keep. Many of our sedation patients actually start coming more regularly once they realize how comfortable the appointments can be. The goal is to help you maintain good oral health without stress or fear.

Coverage varies significantly depending on your specific plan and the reason for sedation. Some insurance plans will cover sedation if it’s considered medically necessary—for example, if you have a documented anxiety disorder or medical condition that makes treatment difficult without sedation.

However, many plans consider sedation a convenience or comfort measure and don’t provide coverage. Nitrous oxide is more likely to be covered than oral or IV sedation. The dental procedure itself is usually covered according to your plan’s normal benefits, but the sedation may be an out-of-pocket expense.

Our office can help you understand your coverage before your appointment. Even if insurance doesn’t cover the sedation, many patients find it’s worth the investment to get the dental care they need in a comfortable, stress-free way. We’re happy to discuss payment options to make quality dental care accessible.