Nitrous Oxide
If you prefer to have some sort of sedative medication to help with any anxiety, but still want to drive to and from the office, “laughing gas” would be the best option. Laughing gas or nitrous oxide is a safe, effective, and mild sedative agent used to take the edge off of a dental visit. It also works well for children who are unable to sit still or those whose gag reflex interferes with dental treatment.
Laughing gas is a blend of two gases – oxygen and nitrous oxide. A fitted mask is placed over the nose and, as the patient breathes normally, a monitored dose of the gas enters into the blood stream via inhalation through the lungs. At the end of treatment, it is eliminated after a short period of breathing oxygen and has no lingering effects.
Under nitrous oxide, you will smell a faint, sweet aroma and experience a sense of well-being and relaxation. We liken it to having a glass or two of wine. It is often called “laughing gas” because it may produce a feeling of giddiness or euphoria. It also raises the pain threshold and may even make the time appear to pass quickly.
Nitrous oxide is very safe and well tolerated. It has a rapid onset, is reversible, can be adjusted in various concentrations and is non-allergenic. You remain fully conscious, keeping all natural reflexes as well as capable of responding to a question or request. As you may know, not all people’s tolerance of drugs, and therefore nitrous oxide, are alike. Nitrous oxide may not be effective for some people. We will review your medical history, level of anxiety, and dental treatment needs to inform you if nitrous oxide/oxygen is recommended for you.