Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.
Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen while using nitrous oxide for sedation.
The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.
Advantages to using Nitrous Oxide
The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
There are no after effects.
Inhalation sedation is safe.
Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
It works rapidly. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.
Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide
Medical conditions which cause difficulty in breathing could contraindicate the use of nitrous oxide. Discuss your medical history with Drs. Brown and Brown to determine if nitrous oxide sedation is appropriate for you.