If the thought of the dentist makes your stomach drop, you're in good company — and you have options. Nitrous oxide is one of the simplest, safest ways to take the edge off your visit.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide — often called "laughing gas" — is a colorless, mild sedative you breathe in through a small, comfortable nose mask, mixed with oxygen. It helps you feel calm, relaxed and a little floaty while staying fully awake and able to talk with us the whole time.
What does it feel like?
Most people describe a pleasant, warm, tingly sensation and a sense of calm within a few minutes. Time tends to pass more quickly, and anxiety melts away. You remain conscious and in control — it simply takes the worry down a few notches.
It wears off fast
Unlike heavier sedation, nitrous leaves your system within minutes once the mask comes off and you breathe normal oxygen. In most cases you can safely drive yourself home and return to your day.
Who is it a good fit for?
- Patients who feel anxious, tense or fearful about dental care.
- Those with a strong gag reflex or difficulty getting comfortably numb.
- Children who need a little help sitting still and staying calm.
- Anyone facing a longer procedure who would simply prefer to relax.
Is it safe?
Nitrous oxide has been used in dentistry for well over a century and is considered very safe when administered by trained professionals. We monitor you throughout, adjust the level to keep you comfortable, and finish with pure oxygen to clear it from your system. Side effects are uncommon and usually limited to mild, brief nausea or light-headedness.
Tell us about your health
Nitrous isn't right for everyone. Let us know if you're pregnant, have certain respiratory conditions (like COPD), a recent ear or sinus surgery, or a vitamin B12 deficiency, so we can recommend the best comfort option for you.
Before & after your appointment
- Eat a light meal beforehand — a very full or completely empty stomach can increase the chance of nausea.
- Wear comfortable clothing and let us know if the mask ever feels too tight.
- After we switch you to oxygen, you'll feel back to normal quickly before you leave.
Other ways we keep you comfortable
Beyond nitrous, comfort is built into everything we do: a gentle, unhurried pace, numbing gel before any injections, warm blankets, headphones, and a team that always explains the next step before it happens. If you've had a tough dental experience in the past, just tell us — we'll go at your speed.