For many patients, nitrous oxide sedation or “laughing gas” is a very safe way to help increase relaxation, reduce discomfort, and even make the dental experience pleasant. With nitrous oxide you breathe through a small mask that covers only your nose. You are awake during the entire appointment and in control of the level/intensity of gas that you receive. Shortly afterwards you will feel “back to normal” and can even drive your car after your appointment.

Nitrous oxide sedation can help with the following:

• Reduce or eliminate anxiety:  It might be that as a child you had a bad dental experience and even as an adult, an anxiety sets in when you are are having dental work done.
• Increase relaxation:  Even if  you do not have dental anxiety but you would just like your appointment to be a bit more comfortable, laughing gas can help.
• Eliminate pain and discomfort:  Maybe you have a very sensitive mouth and find all dental procedures uncomfortable.  Laughing gas may be the solution for you.
• Reduce gagging:  Perhaps you have a bad “gag-reflex” which makes dental procedures very difficult.
• Make the appointment feel like it goes by quicker (increase tolerance for longer appointments).
• Some of our patients even prefer to have their dental cleanings done with nitrous oxide.

Is nitrous oxide right for you?

Adults and children of any age are a candidate for nitrous oxide sedation and there are very few contraindications.  You may book a complementary consultation at Highview Dental to discuss your particular situation and to answer any questions you may have.