Nitrous Oxide Sedation in Farmingdale, NY

Many people will tend to avoid dentist appointments out of fear or anxiety. If you are one of those people, Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates offers nitrous oxide sedation. Our facility in Farmingdale, NY provides nitrous oxide (N₂O) sedation for both longer procedures and to comfort individuals with dental fears and anxieties during standard visits. This gas is an effective sedation option that can help you relax during your dental work so you can get the treatment your mouth needs and deserves. Also called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used to help you feel more comfortable while still being awake. Call us today to learn more about sedation methods, like N₂O.

N₂O (nitrous oxide) is one of the most common sedation techniques used in dentistry. It works for children and adults alike who face fears and anxiety about the dentist. Before we use something like nitrous oxide gas, we will go over your concerns, current medications, and medical history to be sure that nitrous oxide gas is indeed a fit for you. We can use this form of sedation for lengthy or short procedures and can even use it in conjunction with local anesthesia to help decrease potential pain. This form of sedation may not be suitable if you have extreme phobias, trouble breathing through your nose, have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other similar health concerns.

Before we start your procedure, we will administer the nitrous oxide gas to you through a nasal hood. You will inhale the gas, and it will act quickly to begin relaxing you. We will carefully observe your health and response to the gas, and adjust the amount as necessary during the appointment for optimal relaxation. You will likely feel a tingling sensation, as well as a feeling of warmth, vibration, and euphoria as the N₂O takes effect. This is all normal. Nitrous oxide is typically used along with a local anesthesia, like lidocaine, to deaden sensation; however, it is dependent on the procedure you're getting. When we are done, the gas is shut off and the effects will begin to fade immediately.

You should begin to recover from nitrous oxide sedation immediately because it typically leaves the body in under five minutes. You should be fine to operate a vehicle and return to your daily routine as soon as we are done with your procedure. While side effects are uncommon, you might experience headaches, chills, sweating, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue. If this happens, please contact our office if they last longer than a few days. To reduce the chance of nausea and vomiting, we recommend eating a light meal prior to your procedure and that you wait at least three hours after you leave before eating a larger meal.

If you find yourself avoiding the dentist or are worried to get that oral pain fixed, please schedule an appointment with Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates to learn more about nitrous oxide sedation at our Farmingdale, NY office. Our skilled staff will gladly answer any questions you have and ease your concerns about sedation. We want you to have a great experience and an even healthier mouth.

How will I feel after the nitrous oxide wears off?
Most patients feel completely back to normal within minutes after the gas is turned off. Unlike deeper forms of sedation, nitrous oxide wears off quickly and doesn’t leave lingering grogginess. You’ll be able to drive yourself home, return to work or school, and resume normal activities without needing recovery time, though some people may feel slightly lightheaded for a few minutes.

Can I eat or drink before my appointment if I’m receiving nitrous oxide?
It’s generally recommended to eat only a light meal a few hours before your appointment if you plan to receive nitrous oxide. Having a full stomach can increase the risk of nausea, a rare but possible side effect. Our dental team will provide specific guidance based on your procedure and individual needs.

Is nitrous oxide safe to use more than once or for multiple visits?
Yes, nitrous oxide is considered very safe for repeated use, even across multiple dental appointments. Because it doesn’t accumulate in the body and wears off quickly, it can be used as needed for patients who experience dental anxiety or need ongoing care. Your dentist will continue to monitor your response each time to ensure it remains an appropriate and effective option.