Question about cavity and dentist

DS just turned 3 and has 2 or 3 cavities. The dentist told us in order to treat the cavities they would have to sedate him because a 3 year old will not sit still for it. I asked the dentist if this is what she really recommends and if it is common to sedate a patient for this and her response was yes to both.

Has any one had experience with this? When I called the billing manager at the office she said she is not familiar with this which makes me think it's not common, or she could be new. But to be a billing manager I would think you'd have to know from a previous job even if she is new to the office.

The dentist called DH personally last Friday and explained that the anesthesia will probably not be covered by Cigna and is estimated to be $1500 out of pocket.

Also, can a dentist tell if there is cavity just by looking at it? She didn't do any x-rays and there were no visible decay on the tooth. Should I get a second opinion?

Question about cavity and dentist

I would get a second opinion. I would also not sedate your child for a cavity. I have a special needs son, and was told by a couple of regular pediatric dentists that he needed to be sedated for a filling. The cost was $1500 and then like $250 for every 15 minutes after that. Insane. I took him to Stony Brook Dental school pediatric department, and they were able to get it done without sedating him. They gave him nitrous oxide, which was better than putting him under.

Message edited 7/8/2013 11:43:18 AM.

Re: Question about cavity and dentist

Question about cavity and dentist

How do I get a second opinion? Will my plan allow me to see another dentist?
I mentioned the dentist we are using to my pediatrician and he said she is good and trust her opinion. I trust my ped, not sure about the dentist.

Re: Question about cavity and dentist

Posted by lucamon

Posted by BargainMama

I would get a second opinion. I would also not sedate your child for a cavity. I have a special needs son, and was told by a couple of regular pediatric dentists that he needed to be sedated for a filling. The cost was $1500 and then like $250 for every 15 minutes after that. Insane. I took him to Stony Brook Dental school pediatric department, and they were able to get it done without sedating him. They gave him nitrous oxide, which was better than putting him under.

They used nitrous oxide on DS when he went to the emergency room for an accident and it did not work on him at all. They ended up having two male nurse hold him down while the surgeon stitched him up. Not sure if we want a repeat of that.