Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

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

It has been the primary means of light sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is the safest form of light sedation that is available.  

A patient who receives nitrous, actually receives a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. It is not possible to deliver nitrous without oxygen, with the equipment used at our office.  When a patient is using nitrous, they are able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

The patient may experience mild amnesia, and may fall asleep during the procedure.  

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide:

• The amount of sedation can be altered at any time.
• There is no after-effect such as a “hangover.”
• Nitrous is safe.
• Nitrous helps to minimize “gagging.”
• Nitrous works rapidly (relaxation and mild analgesia effects occur in as little as 2-3 minutes).

Reasons for NOT using Nitrous Oxide:

You should let your dentist know if you have any breathing issues, are pregnant, or have had any recent eye surgery.  You should not use Nitrous if you have significant difficulty breathing.  Particularly if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). You should not use nitrous if you are pregnant.  You should not use nitrous if you have had recent intraocular eye surgery.  If you have any questions please ask one of our dentists or feel free to give us a call at Rigby Office Phone Number 208-745-6536.