Sedation Dentist? For Many Patients, Not During a Recession

Many patients who might see a sedation dentist are avoiding sedation dentistry for less expensive options, found this survey. Two out of three dentists say the recession has led to a decrease in demand for sleep dentistry.

This is especially true of oral conscious sedation, but also holds true for IV sedation.

“There’s also been a decrease in demand for dental implants and cosmetic dentistry,” said one dentist. “People are trying to save wherever they can,” agreed a periodontist.

Here are some further comments:

• “All of dentistry is elective excluding a simple extraction. When times are bad and money is tight, dentistry can be delayed, including broken fillings, cleanings, crowns, etc.” (Indiana dentist)
• “If it costs more for sedation dentistry…or anything else…patients would rather not do it or delay treatment.” (General dentist)
• “The recession is causing patients to defer anything except what they perceive to be critical care.” (Maine dentist)
• “Demand has stayed the same or slightly INCREASED!” (Indiana dentist)
• “Case sizes are smaller as dental financing is not as readily available.” (Tennessee dentist)
• This is the first time an economic slowdown/recession has ever affected our practice.” (California dentist)

Read more: Sedation Dentistry & the Recession: Less Work for the Sleep Dentist