What is Sedation?

Sedation, as we provide it, is a form of light sleep and relaxation. While you may actually be awake for portions of the procedure, you often will not know or care about many of the details. This is not a general anesthetic. For safety reasons we will NOT make you completely unconscious. However, it is unlikely you, as a patient will know the difference. You will be in a state of monitored relaxation and light sleep for your procedure

Do I need Sedation?

It depends. Some procedures are more easily performed if the patient (you) is sedated. In most cases, sedation offers a chance to be unaware and therefore less nervous or anxious about the procedure. Often, it simply makes the procedure a more pleasurable experience. If you are a patient who tends to be anxious, or fearful of medical/dental procedures, or have failed other sedation methods in your providers office in the past. Please contact us. Our board certified anesthesiologists can assist you in having your procedure safely, in a monitored and controlled fashion.

Will I be completely asleep?

No, but it is very unlikely you will know otherwise. Many patients are completely unaware of most all details regarding their procedure. Shortly after the sedation begins, you will likely think you slept through the entire procedure.

Can I eat or Drink before my procedure?

We ask that for your safety you do not eat anything SIX hours before your scheduled arrival time. You may drink CLEAR liquid (water, BLACK coffee (no cream or sugar) or apple juice) up until TWO hours before your arrival time. This is for your safety and you will be delayed or cancelled if you do not follow these guidelines, they are for your safety.

I get sick with Anesthesia. Will I get sick after the procedure?

It is very unlikely you will get sick with this type of anesthesia. While we use many of the techniques and monitors found in the hospital setting for your care in the office. We tailor the drugs we give to minimize the chances of post-operative nausea and vomiting. If you follow the above guidelines about not eating and drinking prior to your procedure it adds another layer of protection against getting sick during/after the procedure.

How does sedation with ETAA differ from what may already be available from my physician/dentist?

Traditional office based sedation often consists of one of two models. The first model is that of the "dose and go" sedation. In this model, you are prescribed a single pill, often a mild sedative, to be taken just before or just as you arrive at the physician/dentist's office. This single dose approach, while effective for some, is really the only chance you get to obtain an adequate level of sedation. There is very little that can be done to help the under sedated patient beyond adding another pill and waiting for the results. This can sometimes lead to a period of heavy over sedation, that can be undesirable as well.

The second model involves some form of assistant to provide the sedation during your procedure. Often, this can be a variation on the "dose and go" model or it can involve starting an intravenous (IV) line and administering potent sedative drugs. In this technique, your additional sedation, if any, is provided by a nurse (or some assistant), who may have additional duties during your procedure that may include assisting your dentist/physician thus taking their focus away from you. Our board certified physicians administer your sedation in a controlled IV form. Our ONLY duty is your safety and comfort. This allows us to adjust your level of sedation while monitoring all your body's responses, therefore ensuring a safe and comfortable experience. This is far superior to the "dose and go" approach that may leave you under sedated and still anxious or the sedation nurse approach where their other duties prevent undivided attention to your care.

Can I drive to my appointment?

Driving to your appointment is OK, but you must have a driver for the return trip. It is also a good idea to have someone stay with you, that night, if you live alone. You will be given discharge instructions the day of your procedure that will go over all the important things you should/should not do.

Will insurance pay for my sedation?

In some cases, YES. Insurances companies do recognize the importance of a safely performed physician administered sedation and they often will pay up to 80% of your total costs (up to your yearly limit). Insurance policies vary from patient to patient, so you need to check with your insurance company for the specifics of your policy. We will provide all necessary filing information upon request.

Why do I have to pre-pay?

The demand for our services is high. To ensure that everyone who wants sedation can be accommodated, we ask patients to pre-pay. This ensures a lower than normal cancellation rate from our patients.

What will it cost?

Our physicians have a fixed rate negotiated with your provider that is designed to be a fraction of your total cost. This amount is paid in advance to hold your appointment with us. After the procedure we will gladly provide all necessary paperwork for you to file with your insurance company upon request

What if I miss my appointment?

Things happen. If you cannot make your scheduled appointment and our office is notified within 48 hours before you appointment, your money will be refunded. If you cancel less than 48 hours before or do not show up, we will withhold a $50 scheduling fee from your refund.

What can I expect?

After your appointment is verified with our office, your anesthesiologist will be assigned. The night before your appointment you will be contacted by your anesthesiologist to answer any last minute questions you might have. When you arrive for your procedure and IV will be started to administer the sedation in a controlled fashion. Your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level and other physiologic parameters will be monitored just as if you were in a hospital setting. Our anesthesiologists will be at your side for the duration of the procedure monitoring every aspect of your care and comfort. We have no other responsibilities but you. At the conclusion of the procedure, most patients are able to leave almost immediately, with little noticeable effects of the sedation. You will still not be allowed to drive for the remainder of the day and must follow all precautions listed in your discharge hand-out. Expect a follow-up phone call the night of your procedure, just to check and see how you are doing.