Sedation Dentistry

If you or your child is anxious visiting the dentist, our dentists are trained to use oral sedation in addition to laughing gas in order to reduce anxiety and facilitate treatment.

Nitrous Oxide (aka laughing gas) 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. The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. The patient may experience mild amnesia, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

What are the advantages to using Nitrous Oxide?
The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
Inhalation sedation is safe with few side effects.
Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes you should feel much more relaxed and calm

Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide
Though there are no major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

If you or your child’s anxiety is not effectively controlled using Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas), our dentists are trained to use oral sedation in addition to laughing gas in order to reduce anxiety and facilitate treatment.

If you wish to use oral sedation for your appointments, please ask one of our dentists and we would be glad to discuss it with you.

Generally speaking, once arranged, you should arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. We will review your medical history, discuss the proposed treatment and administer the medication at an appropriate time in order to maximize its effect during your appointment.