Nitrous Oxide Analgesia

Nitrous oxide is commonly known as "laughing gas."   For some children and adults, it can make dental care more comfortable by reducing anxiety about treatment and by enhancing the effects of local anesthetics.  Some insurance providers will pay for this service when a patient is having other invasive treatment like fillings or extractions.  Not all patients are candidates to use nitrous oxide.  The gas is breathed in through a mask over your nose and takes effect very quickly, and you stay awake and responsive during treatment.  After treatment, you are given pure oxygen to breathe for several minutes, and the effects of the nitrous oxide go away quickly allowing you to drive yourself home and return to school or work if necessary.  If you have ever resisted going to the dentist because you were anxious, nitrous oxide may be helpful in completing your treatment and restoring your mouth to health.