Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax.

Nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas, is one option we can 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 or like they are floating. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable.

 


 

The nitrous oxide leaves your system at the end of treatment, so you may come and go from your appointment unaccompanied and can drive yourself to and from the appointment. Nitrous oxide is not recommended in the following cases: nasal obstruction, pregnancy, pulmonary disease such as COPD or respiratory infections. It is safe to use on children and adults and those with asthma.

While nitrous oxide may help you relax, local anesthetic is still required to numb the teeth. Please let us know if you have questions about nitrous oxide or would like to know if this is a good option for you.

As always, please let us know what we may do to help you relax and have a positive dental experience. We are here to help.

Make an appointment

Patient ReviewS

OTHER SERVICES

Specialty

Botox®

Botox® is a natural, purified protein that is used in dentistry to treat: Headaches Chronic migraines Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) Temporomandibular disorder (TMD, jaw

Learn More »

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is an effective way to achieve the smile you have always wanted Discolored, stained, chipped, worn, misaligned, broken or spaced teeth may be

Learn More »
Technology & Other

Digital Impressions

Digital impressions replace the traditional goopy impression material that was used to take molds of the teeth.   What are digital impressions? Digital impressions (also

Learn More »
carbon dioxide CO2 laser
Technology & Other

Laser Dentistry

Lasers have been used in dentistry since 1990 and are used for a wide range of dental procedures.   What is a laser and how

Learn More »

Search Seattle Smiles Dental