Partial Sedation in Gambrills, MD
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people delay or avoid the care they need and it’s one Dr. Bruce Auslander takes seriously. To help patients throughout Gambrills, Crofton, Odenton, and the Waugh Chapel area feel calm and comfortable, Auslander Dental offers sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas). Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or a more involved procedure, sedation can make the visit far less stressful — without putting your day on hold.
What Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a form of partial sedation that has been used safely in dentistry for more than 100 years. Combined with a local anesthetic, it helps nervous patients get through treatment comfortably and calmly. It’s important to note that nitrous oxide is NOT a numbing agent — it doesn’t block pain on its own — but rather it subdues anxiety, so you stay relaxed while Dr. Auslander performs your treatment. Your medical history will be reviewed before your first use, since nitrous oxide may not be appropriate for patients who are pregnant, have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or are taking certain medications.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose. After a few minutes, most patients notice a floating sensation or mild tingling in the extremities. Throughout the procedure, you remain fully awake and in control — able to speak, respond, and breathe normally the entire time. At the end of your treatment, the nitrous oxide flow is stopped while oxygen flow increases, helping the effects clear quickly. We recommend resting for a few minutes afterward, but most patients are able to continue on with their day with little to no lingering effect — often described as a very minimal “hangover” at most.
Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry isn’t just for major procedures — it’s a great option for anyone who feels nervous, tense, or avoids the dentist altogether. You may want to talk to Dr. Auslander about sedation if you:
- Feel anxious or fearful about dental visits
- Have a strong gag reflex that makes treatment uncomfortable
- Have had a difficult or painful dental experience in the past
- Have sensory sensitivities that make sitting through treatment difficult
- Need a longer or more involved procedure completed in one visit
- Simply want a calmer, more relaxed appointment
Many of our patients come to us after years of avoiding the dentist due to anxiety or a difficult gag reflex, and leave surprised by how relaxed they felt. If that sounds like you, sedation dentistry may be worth a conversation at your next visit.
Sedation Dentistry Cost & Insurance Coverage in Gambrills, MD
Nitrous oxide sedation is typically an affordable add-on to your treatment, and many PPO dental plans provide partial or full coverage — particularly when paired with a covered procedure. Cost can vary depending on the length of your visit and the treatment being performed; our team will confirm your exact cost and verify your benefits before your appointment so there are no surprises.
We accept all PPO insurance plans. Learn more on our Insurance & Payment page.
Why Choose Dr. Auslander for Sedation Dentistry
- Serving nervous and anxious patients throughout Gambrills, Crofton, Odenton, and the Waugh Chapel area
- Nitrous oxide sedation used safely for over a century, reviewed against your medical history for safety
- No needles or numbing shots required for nitrous oxide
- Accepts all PPO insurance plans and verifies benefits before your visit
- Walk-ins welcome and same-day appointments available
- A calm, judgment-free environment for patients with dental anxiety or a sensitive gag reflex
Scheduling Your Sedation Dentistry Visit Is Simple
If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you need, let’s talk about how sedation dentistry can help. Reach out by phone or request an appointment online, and our team will walk you through your options.
- Contact Us — Call 301-517-7335 or request an appointment online.
- Consultation — Dr. Auslander reviews your medical history and discusses which sedation option is right for you.
- Relaxed Treatment — Receive your care comfortably, with sedation tailored to your needs.
Schedule Your Sedation Dentistry Appointment
Frequency Ask Questions about Sedation Dentistry
Is nitrous oxide sedation safe?
Yes. Nitrous oxide has been used safely in dentistry for more than 100 years. Your medical history is reviewed beforehand to confirm it’s a safe option for you.
Will I be asleep during my procedure?
No. Nitrous oxide is a partial sedation — you remain fully awake, able to speak and respond normally, but feel calm and relaxed throughout treatment.
Can I drive myself home after nitrous oxide sedation?
In most cases, yes. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly once the mask is removed, and most patients can continue their day as normal. (If oral or IV sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home.)
Does nitrous oxide hurt?
No. Nitrous oxide itself doesn’t numb pain — it’s typically combined with a local anesthetic for that — but the gas itself is inhaled painlessly through a small nasal mask.
Who shouldn’t use nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide may not be appropriate for patients who are pregnant, have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or are taking certain medications. We’ll review your medical history before your first use to confirm it’s right for you.
How much does sedation dentistry cost?
Cost varies depending on your treatment and visit length. Many PPO plans offer partial or full coverage, and we’ll verify your benefits before your appointment.
I have severe dental anxiety — can sedation really help?
Yes. Sedation dentistry is specifically designed for patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or past difficult experiences at the dentist. Many of our patients tell us it’s made a real difference in how comfortable they feel getting the care they need.