Sedation Dentistry in Huntington, NY
Kalmar Family Dentistry offers sedation dentistry via nitrous oxide for anxious, nervous, or fearful patients. To learn more or book an appointment, call 631-673-0670 or send us a message.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
The goal of sedation dentistry is to promote relaxation, reduce fear, and soothe anxiety so that vital dental procedures including oral examinations and cleanings, root canal therapy, and dental extractions can be performed more comfortably for the patient.
At Kalmar Family Dentistry, sedation is available through nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry offers the following benefits for patients
- Helps patients to relax before dental work is performed
- Helps longer procedures to feel as if they have passed more quickly
- Helps prevent patients from tensing up, or gagging during dental work
- Produces effects very quickly
- Wears off within minutes of turning off the gas
- Does not require you to be accompanied to or driven home from your appointment
Why Choose Kalmar Family Dentistry?
At Kalmar Family Dentistry, patient comfort and care are our top priorities. We understand that going to the dentist can cause significant distress, fear, or anxiety in our patients. We offer sedation dentistry to ensure that you or your child can receive excellent oral health care in a relaxing, safe environment.
Sedation Options We Offer
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, has been used safely in dental offices for hundreds of years. It provides both anesthetic and relaxant benefits. Nitrous oxide blocks pain signals from reaching the brain while producing a relaxed state.
Nitrous oxide along with oxygen is inhaled through a small mask fitted over the nose. Relaxing effects are felt in just a few minutes. Nitrous oxide does not put you to sleep like general anesthesia does. You remain conscious and able to respond to verbal commands or instructions.
Are You A Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
If a fear of dental treatment prevents you from regular care, you are likely an excellent candidate for sedation dentistry using nitrous oxide. Likewise, if you have a strong gas reflex, or experience anxiety or panic while undergoing dental treatment, you are likely a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Patients with special needs are often also good candidates for sedation dentistry
Laughing gas is not recommended for those in their first trimester of pregnancy. Some medications or underlying health conditions may be contraindicated for nitrous oxide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Is nitrous oxide safe?
Nitrous oxide when administered by an experienced dentist, is considered very safe. It has not been found to affect heart rate, nor negatively impact the liver, kidney, lungs, or brain. However, you must provide your dentist with all medications you take, and notify them of any underlying health conditions you have.
What are the potential side effects of laughing gas?
All medications have the potential to cause side effects. Though rare, potential short-lived side effects may include headaches or nausea. Long-term side effects after occasional use have not been confirmed.
Can children be given nitrous oxide for dental procedures?
Yes. Children in good health, and free of conditions that would preclude them from receiving inhaled nitrous oxide may receive sedation for dental treatment. Nitrous oxide is the mildest form of sedation available and is considered very safe and gentle.
How long does it take for the effects of nitrous oxide to wear off?
Nitrous oxide takes effect in a few minutes and wears off completely within a few minutes. It is incredibly fast-acting and has a half-life of just a few minutes.
Can I drive after nitrous oxide?
Yes. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off within minutes of the gas being turned off. By the time your appointment is complete, you will be able to drive yourself home.
Book Your Dental Appointment in Huntington, NY
Don’t let a fear of the dentist prevent you from getting the vital oral health care you need. Sedation dentistry can help make your visit and treatment less stressful or frightening. To book an appointment, call 631-673-0670, or send us a message.