If a visit to the dentist has hurt before, or you dread the thought of one, you’re far from alone. Dentistry has come a long way in helping people with dental anxiety. Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide (N₂O), has helped many of our patients feel at ease.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative. It is mixed with oxygen, and you breathe it in through a small mask that fits over your nose. It has a sweet, pleasant smell and leaves you feeling relaxed.
It is one of the ways our clinics can make you more comfortable during some procedures. It doesn’t put you to sleep. You can still hear the dentist and respond to anything they ask.
The dentist will ask you to breathe normally through your nose. Within a few minutes you should start to feel it. You may feel light-headed, or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Mostly, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effect wears off soon after the mask comes off.
Is it safe?
While you breathe nitrous oxide, we monitor it closely so the amount is right for you. It is safe for most patients. It may not be safe if you have a history of lung problems, are pregnant, or take certain prescription medicines. We check these with you first and make sure it’s the safest choice for your treatment.
Can I have it at every visit?
If you’re healthy enough for it and your dentist agrees, you can ask for nitrous oxide at each visit.
Over time your anxiety about the dentist may fade until you no longer need it. If it never does, we’ll still be with you at every step.