Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you inhale.

Nitrous oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe; the patient is administered a minimum of 50 to 70% oxygen with a patient specific percent of nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation relieves patients anxiety and eliminates gagging.

The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

The patient maintains a proper and appropriate comfort level, specific to that patient.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no after effect such as a “hangover.”
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart, lungs, etc.
• Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
• It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2 to 3 minutes its relaxation and analgesic (pain reducing) properties develop.

Reasons to Not Use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize nitrous oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, MS, a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your dentist for a “five-minute trial” to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.