Our advanced facilities offer nitrous oxide sedation to help patients remain comfortable during their appointments, no matter how big or small the procedure. Nitrous oxide (N2O) gas is an effective sedation method that can help you to safely relax without feeling groggy afterward and is safe to operate a vehicle within minutes after administration stops. Commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used by the board-certified doctors and hygienists at Smilearts to help you feel more comfortable, but still awake. Ask about N2O with a member of our team to discuss using nitrous during your dental procedures.

Nitrous oxide is one of the most common sedation techniques available. It can be used safely on both adults and children. Before nitrous oxide gas is used, our team will go through your medical history, current medications, and concerns to ensure nitrous oxide gas is a good choice for you. N2O sedation can be used for most minimally invasive procedures and is often combined with local anesthesia to maximize comfort. Nitrous oxide sedation may also be used for standard dental examinations or cleanings if you have dental anxieties or fears that make these procedures stressful for you. Nitrous oxide gas may not be suitable if you have difficulty breathing through your nose, extreme phobias, are pregnant, have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or certain other conditions.

Before your procedure begins, the nitrous oxide gas will be administered through a nasal covering. As you gently inhale the gas, it will quickly act to start relaxing you. A member of the SmileArts team will monitor your vital signs and your response to the gas, adjusting the volume as needed throughout the procedure, so you remain comfortable. You may notice tingling in your arms and legs, as well as a feeling of vibration, warmth, euphoria, or well-being as the gas takes effect. Nitrous oxide is normally used along with a local anesthesia such as lidocaine to numb your mouth in the areas being treated. Once the procedure is complete, the gas will be turned off and the effects should quickly wear off.

Recovery from N2O sedation is usually immediate as the gas leaves your body within 3 – 5 minutes. You should be able to drive and resume your normal activities when you leave our office. Side effects are uncommon, but you may experience temporary headaches, chills, sweating, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue. Please contact a SmileArts team member if you have any concerns or side effects that last longer than a few days. To minimize the risk of nausea and vomiting, our team suggests you eat a light meal before your procedure and wait at least three hours after you leave before eating a large meal.

If you have dental insurance, our skilled support staff will contact your carrier to understand your coverage and benefits regarding nitrous oxide sedation. This will help us better estimate your out-of-pocket costs before your procedure. If you do not have dental insurance, SmileArts dental only charges $25 dollars making it affordable for everyone.