Nitrous Oxide Sedation

For our fearful or apprehensive patients, Dr. Steven Polevoy offers various types of sedation dentistry, including Nitrous Oxide gas.
Safe and effective, the gas allows you to control your anxiety, and tolerate dental treatment much more easily.
Dr. Polevoy has earned a reputation of a gentle, comfortable dentist among Westchester dental patients. He is the dentist of choice for many of your neighbors in and around Harrison and Scarsdale, White Plains and New Rochelle.

How does nitrous oxide work?

Nitrous oxide is effective at making you feel more relaxed and less anxious. You are never “out” or “asleep” – but you are much less apprehensive. Many dental patients report the feeling to be similar to a few glasses of wine. Depending on the concentration, you may feel light-headedness, a feeling of well-being, or a deeper, sleepier level of sedation.

If you experience any unpleasant symptoms, we can adjust the percentage of N2O – or just take the mask off.

How is nitrous oxide administered?

We place a mask over your nose – and you breath in a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide. There are no needles or IVs.

What are the advantages of nitrous oxide?

Rapid onset and wear-off – starts in seconds, ends in seconds.
We can make the level of sedation as light or deep as you need- and you’re always in control.
No “hangover” effect – the gas is eliminated from the body within 3 to 5 minutes after the gas supply is stopped. You can safely drive home and don’t need an escort.

Are there any disadvantages?

Some people are not comfortable with the effects of laughing gas – they’re afraid of losing control.
If you can’t breathe through your nose, nitrous oxide cannot be used.

Does my dental insurance cover Nitrous Oxide?

Some plans cover it, most do not.

How do I know if it’s for me?

Dr. Steven Polevoy is one of the most experienced Westchester dentists with Nitrous Oxide Anesthesia. Many of our patients elect to use Nitrous Gas for dental procedures. As any good dentist should do, Dr. Polevoy will discuss your particular situation and the two of you decide if the Nitrous oxide is right for you.