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Sedation Dentistry – Edison, NJ

Feel At-Ease with Dental Sedation

The Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS Education), which is an organization of dental professionals that are committed to providing patients with safe and relaxing care, estimates that 30% of the adult population don’t see the dentist because they are fearful. For some, this fear is rooted in a memory of a childhood visit to the dentist that was less than pleasant, while others feel overstimulated by the sights and sounds of the dental office. In any case, our friendly and understanding team is happy to help you feel comfortable during your appointment, allowing you to do what’s right for your oral and overall health.

Why Choose Rosenfeld Dental Associates for Sedation Dentistry?

  • Dentist with Advanced Training & Experience
  • Welcoming Patients of All Ages
  • In-Network with Several Insurances

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

nitrous oxide machine

Dr. Rosenfeld is pleased to offer his patients fast-acting, in-office nitrous oxide sedation. It provides near-immediate relief of anxiety and fear for patients who suffer from it, making their experience more relaxing and positive. So, if you struggle with dental-related anxiety due to the sights and sounds of the dental office, a previous bad experience, or something similar, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment and find out if you’re a candidate for nitrous oxide!

Who is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?

Woman in white collared shirt smiling in dental chair

Just like with anything else, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for dental-related anxiety. For example, if you have a condition that makes it difficult to breathe through your nose, nitrous oxide sedation isn’t ideal for you. With that said, it is a good fit for a wide range of patients because it’s mild. In fact, it’s even safe for children! So, if you’ve been postponing essential dental care because of a fear of needles, a strong gag reflex, or overwhelming anxiety, nitrous oxide may be the answer you’ve been looking for.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

Patient breathing in nitrous oxide through nasal mask

To administer the sedation, we’ll secure a small mask over the nose that will allow you to breathe in a colorless, odorless gas. Within a few moments, you’ll start to feel a wave of relief spread throughout your body. Although you’ll feel completely relaxed and anxiety-free, you won’t be asleep. As a result, you can respond easily to the verbal cues we give you, you can ask any questions you have, and you can request for the nitrous oxide to be adjusted as needed.

Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide

Man in dental treatment chair smiling

Once your procedure or cleaning is complete, we’ll remove the mask and have you breathe in pure oxygen to help minimize any side-effects you may experience due to the sedation.  As soon as the effects wear off, which can take as little as a minute, you’ll be able to go on with your day as you normally would! That means that you won’t have to worry about taking time off work or arranging for a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment.

Are You a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

a person with a nitrous oxide mask on their face

Most patients are good candidates for dental sedation. However, those who are in their first trimester of pregnancy, have emphysema, or those who have recently had ear surgery may not be good candidates. Dr. Rosenfeld and our team will discuss your medical history with you before administering any kind of sedation to make sure it’s safe.

Nitrous oxide sedation is a great option for those who:

  • Have a fear of needles
  • Have past trauma relating to a dentist
  • Have a sensitive gag reflex
  • Require a lengthy or multiple dental treatments
  • Have mild to moderate dental anxiety
  • Have difficulty sitting in the treatment chair

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

Female patient smiling at dentist at dental appointment

Although you’re more than welcome to bring any questions you have directly to our Edison dental team, we know that many of our patients value having the option to continue their research online. So, we’ve dedicated this next section to answering FAQs about nitrous oxide!

Does dental sedation put you to sleep? 

Although sedation dentistry is sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” only general anesthesia will actually put you to sleep. Nitrous oxide, on the other hand, will cause you to feel utterly relaxed and completely anxiety-free while still remaining awake. Of course, there are some cases where patients feel so calm that they begin to drift off. If that happens, not to worry – we can easily wake you up with a gentle tap.

Does dental sedation make you tell secrets? 

Some patients are concerned that they will begin to share secrets or say something they usually wouldn’t while under the effects of sedation dentistry. However, nitrous oxide isn’t a truth serum. Plus, on the off chance that you do something out of the norm, know that it will be kept within the walls of your treatment room.

Will I remember anything with dental sedation? 

With more powerful forms of dental sedation, patients often have a hard time remembering anything at all. With nitrous oxide, you’ll likely be able to remember bits and pieces of your time in the treatment chair. The good news is that the parts you do remember will all be positive since any anxiety, nerves, or stress are kept at bay. That’s why patients who once struggled with dental-related anxiety often are able to form a more positive association with dentistry thanks to the help of nitrous oxide!

Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance? 

Sadly, dental insurance providers typically don’t cover the cost of nitrous oxide and other forms of sedation dentistry. Of course, there are some exceptions. If your treatment plan is particularly extensive, then your benefits may cover a portion of the cost. Similarly, if you have a condition that makes it difficult or impossible to remain still for your time in the treatment chair, you may not have to pay for the entire cost out-of-pocket.

Is sedation dentistry worth it? 

If you have a fear of needles, the sights and sounds of the dental office put you on edge, you struggle with considerable dental sensitivity, or you have dental-related anxiety, then sedation dentistry is absolutely worth the investment. After all, even a mild form like nitrous oxide can effectively alleviate your nerves, stress, and anxiety, allowing you to get the dental care you need in a positive environment.

How long does dental sedation last? 

While some forms of dental sedation, like oral conscious sedation, last for several hours, the effects of nitrous oxide dissipate within a matter of minutes. In fact, you’ll even be able to drive yourself home from your appointment!

If you relate to any of these, we invite you to call our office so we can help make the proper accommodations to ensure your comfort during your upcoming visit.