Nitrous Oxide

At Robinson Dental, your comfort is Lynnwood dentist Dr. Brent Robinson’s primary focus, so we have several anxiety- and pain-reducing methods available to our patients. One of our most commonly used dental sedation methods is nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas. You might not be giggling before it’s used, but chances are you won’t feel — or fret — much after you receive it.

Nitrous Oxide

At Robinson Dental, your comfort is Lynnwood dentist Dr. Brent Robinson’s primary focus, so we have several anxiety- and pain-reducing methods available to our patients. One of our most commonly used dental sedation methods is nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas. You might not be giggling before it’s used, but chances are you won’t feel — or fret — much after you receive it.

child with nitrous Oxide | sedation pediatric dentist Lynnwood WA

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is perhaps the most sought-after clinical sedative because it offers an ideal experience: a painkiller that induces a euphoric feeling. It is a safe and effective sedative that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose. It is odorless, pleasant tasting, and typically begins to work within five minutes.

  • When laughing gas is first administered, you’ll feel:

    • Relaxed
    • A warm sense of well-being
    • Happy or silly
    • A tingling sensation
    • Numbness in your mouth, hands, or feet
    • Hearing changes
    • Sleepiness

You will remain alert and able to respond to Dr. Brent Robinson’s requests and questions while breathing nitrous oxide. It’s an effective option for increasing comfort, because relaxation occurs quickly and the depth of sedation can be increased or decreased, which few other sedation techniques allow.

Who Can Use Nitrous Oxide?

Laughing gas is appropriate for adults and children alike; however, children must be able to leave the soft nosepiece on and follow directions from the dentist.

  • Laughing gas may not be appropriate if you:

    • Are pregnant
    • Have a stuffy nose
    • Have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    • Suffer from congestive heart failure
    • Have a recent head injury
    • Have an ear infection
    • Are taking medicine for a psychiatric condition

The effects of nitrous oxide begin to wear off shortly after you start breathing oxygen again. It can take up to 15 minutes after the gas supply is stopped to feel normal again, so if you opt for this sedation method, you should be able to drive home after the procedure.

woman smiling in mirror at dental office | gum disease therapy in Lynnwood WA

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is nitrous oxide conscious sedation?

    Yes, nitrous oxide is a form of conscious sedation. You will be fully awake and alert during treatment, but your feelings of fear and anxiety will be alleviated.

  • Will my appointment be painless with nitrous oxide?

    Laughing gas alleviates the discomfort and anxiety associated with some treatments. Prior to your treatment, Dr. Brent Robinson will discuss which pain management and sedation options are best for you.

  • Is nitrous oxide safe?

    Nitrous oxide is considered extremely safe. Side effects occur rarely and include dizziness, nausea, and headaches.

Call Robinson Dental at 425-778-1164 to schedule a consultation with our Lynnwood dentist Dr. Brent Robinson, and find out more about nitrous oxide and how we provide a comfortable dental experience.