Our friendly team are trained and experienced in the use of Nitrous Oxide Sedation.
Nitrous Oxide is a safe and effective tool for people with dental anxieties and phobias.
What Does Nitrous Oxide Do?
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a mild sedative agent that safely and effectively manages pain and anxiety during dental treatment. The colourless and odourless nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose. Patients are asked to
Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is one option your dentist may offer to help make you more comfortable during certain procedures. It is not intended to put you to sleep. You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have. Your dentist will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.
Why Use Nitrous Oxide?
If you are having nitrous oxide sedation you don’t need to fast or follow any other pre-appointment instructions. Dentists choose nitrous oxide because it is a safe and effective method for sedations. The gas works quickly to relax patients, and the effects wear off quickly by breathing pure oxygen through a mask.
The nitrous oxide does not put you to sleep. It puts you in a relaxed state and provides pain relief. You can hear and respond to any of the dentist’s questions or instructions. However, you may not remember all details of the appointment.
Nitrous is commonly used in dentistry for the following reasons:
- Patients who are fearful, anxious, or uncooperative
- Patients with special health care needs
- Patients with gag reflexes that interfere with dental care
- Patients who do not respond adequately to local anesthesia
- Younger patients who must undergo lengthy dental procedures