Sedation Dentistry
Many patients have anxiety about coming to see the dentist. We offer conscious sedation to help patients relax and to be worry free from dental treatment.
There are many sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide sedation, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation which are used for a variety of reasons. All of these sedatives provide a deep level of calm and relaxation, but the patient remains conscious and alert, and pain medication must be prescribed separately (typically via a local anesthetic).
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 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. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.
Talk to your dentist about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.