Comfort options
Here, comfort means choices: how the visit is paced, what you hear and see, how the numbing is given and, for some visits, nitrous oxide. We can't promise a visit without worry, and we won't talk you into anything.
Comfort choices we offer
Pacing and breaks
A raised hand stops everything. Breaks are part of the plan, not a failure.
Numbing
Gel first, then a local anesthetic, given slowly. We check it before we start.
Sound and light
Headphones, sunglasses, a lamp aimed away from your face.
A person beside you
A caregiver can stay in the room, in your line of sight.
Nitrous oxide
For some visits, a gas you breathe through a small mask over the nose. See below.
Split visits
Longer treatment can be done in shorter visits, or begin with a practice visit.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, in plain terms
It is minimal sedation. You stay awake, you breathe on your own and you can talk with us.
What it is
Nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen, breathed through a small mask over the nose. Some people find it takes the edge off. It doesn't work for everyone, and it doesn't replace numbing.
Who gives it
The dentist decides if it fits, gives it and stays in the room for the whole visit. It isn't right for everyone, and we say so.
How we watch you
We watch your breathing and how you're doing the entire time, and we can stop it at any point. The gas clears within minutes of taking the mask off.
Before
Tell us about your health and your medicines first. The dentist decides whether it fits.
After
Most people leave on their own within minutes. If you'd like a caregiver to take you home, bring one.
What we don't offer
We don't offer IV sedation, oral sedation or general anesthesia. If a patient needs it, we say so early and help you find a dentist who offers it.
Provided by general dentists
Dr. Concepcion Cisneros, DDS, and Dr. Dominique Hubbard, DMD, general dentists licensed in New York.