Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas that you can breathe.

Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for decades. Nitrous oxide is very safe; the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.

The patient is able to breathe on their own and control all bodily functions.

The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering what happened during their appointment.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no after effect, like a “hangover”.
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects to your heart, lungs, etc.
• Inhalation sedation completely minimizes gagging.
• Nitrous Oxide works rapidly since it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide

You should not use Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may want to avoid it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., the common cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your dentist for a “5 minute trial” to see how you feel under this type of sedation method before going further.