Nitrous Oxide Common Questions And Answers

Nitrous Oxide: Q&A

QUESTION: DO I HAVE TO HAVE SOMETHING OVER MY FACE?

A: Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that we mix with oxygen and administer through a mask that covers your nose. This mask also has a scavenger system attached to it to prevent us from inhaling it.

QUESTION: HOW LONG WILL I BE SEDATED FOR?

A: Unlike oral or IV-sedation, nitrous oxide sedation allows us to control your level of sedation rapidly. Nitrous oxide takes about 3-5 minutes to take effect and once you are no longer breathing nitrous oxide it wears off in 3-5 minutes as well.

QUESTION: AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR NITROUS OXIDE?

A: Nitrous oxide might be the right option for you if you have ever experienced:

• a fear and anxiety of needles, drills, sounds and/or smells of a dental office
• a sensitive gag reflex
• previous traumatic dental experiences
• allergies to other types of sedation
• If your anxiety is more pronounced, we will likely recommend IV-sedation which allows for a deeper level of sedation than nitrous oxide.