Sedation Dentistry

At NYC Smile Design, we recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety for some. To ensure you have a comfortable and stress-free experience, we offer two primary types of dental sedation, each administered under the careful supervision of our experienced dentists:

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

This sedative is inhaled through a mask over your nose, producing a mild level of sedation. Nitrous oxide helps you relax during your procedure without prolonged side effects, allowing you to safely drive yourself home shortly after your appointment. It is known for its safety and minimal risk of complications.

Oral Sedation

For a deeper state of relaxation, oral conscious sedation is an effective option. Like nitrous oxide, oral sedation is safe with a very low risk of complications.

Taken as a pill shortly about an hour before your treatment, it induces a calm state that is just shy of sleep. The oral sedative works by reducing activity in parts of the brain responsible for fear and anxiety. Once the sedative begins to work you will begin to feel drowsy and relaxed. Any negative emotions you may have had before will start to diminish as you become more calm. You may fall asleep, but you will wake up easily to respond to our dentists, but you will likely not recall the details of the procedure afterward. After your procedure, you may feel drowsy and will need someone to escort you home. 

During your initial consultation at our Manhattan office, we will discuss these options in detail, considering your specific needs and concerns to determine the safest and most effective sedation method for you.

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who might otherwise skip dental visits due to anxiety or fear. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have dental anxiety or phobia due to past traumatic experiences or general discomfort with dental procedures. For those patients who have anxiety about being numb enough or a history of high tolerance for numbing medications, oral conscious sedation ensures comfort throughout dental procedures.

Additionally, oral-conscious dental sedation is a great option for a wide range of patients, not just those with dental phobia. If you are undergoing a longer procedure, this sedation method can significantly enhance your comfort and relaxation, making the experience much more pleasant. It is also ideal for patients who have a strong gag reflex, difficulty sitting still for extended periods or TMJ disorders. By opting for oral sedation, you can ensure a smoother, more comfortable dental visit, regardless of your initial comfort level with dental procedures.

We understand that everyone’s reasons for considering sedation dentistry are unique, and we respect and cater to those individual needs.

Our doctors have received specialized training and certification in oral conscious sedation through DOCS Education, a trusted and respected source within the dental community for certification in oral sedation. This rigorous training ensures that our team is highly skilled in providing safe and effective sedation, tailored to meet each patient's unique needs. Our commitment goes beyond technical expertise; we aim to create a caring, compassionate, and comfortable environment for every patient. From the moment you walk in, we strive to make each visit as enjoyable as possible, ensuring you leave our office with a brighter, more confident smile.

Founded in 1995, NYC Smile Design is a leader in providing comprehensive dental care that includes general, cosmetic, orthodontic, and neuromuscular dentistry. Dr. Elisa Mello and Dr. Ramin Tabib are dedicated to making your visit as pleasant and pain-free as possible. They take the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly explain your options, and guide you toward the best solutions for your dental health.