Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Because of advances in techniques and medications, there is usually little or no discomfort during dental visits. However, if you are anxious, or if relaxation techniques fail, a sedative or antianxiety agent, such as nitrous oxide, can help you relax. It provides "conscious sedation", which means you are capable of rational responses to questions or commands. Since you are not totally "asleep", sedation with nitrous oxide involves less risk than general anesthesia. You recover quickly, and with very few side effects.

The procedure: Nitrous oxide, a sweet-smelling gas, is inhaled, along with oxygen, through a nasal mask. This sedative is commonly used during dental treatments such as tooth restoration, placement of crowns, and minor surgical procedures. It is often used along with local anesthetics and pain medications to raise the patient's pain threshold, and may even make time appear to pass quickly.