Nitrous oxide otherwise known as “laughing gas” is a safe and effective sedative agent. You breathe the gas mixed with oxygen in through a small mask that fits over your nose.
Nitrous oxide is one of the options we offer our patients that can help make you more comfortable. It is not intended to put you to sleep, but it helps you relax. The benefits of nitrous oxide are many including that you are able to hear and respond to any questions or directions the dentist may have. It is fairly quick to take effect and fairly quick to leave the body which makes it the only sedation you can take and then drive yourself home afterwards. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.
Talk to your dentist about which form of sedation might be suitable for you.