Nitrous Oxide

Lenox Hill Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery offers Nitrous Oxide Sedation, providing light sedation ideal for relaxed but conscious dental procedures. This sedation is safe for all ages and wears off quickly after completion.

What is Nitrous Oxide, aka “Laughing Gas” Sedation?

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling inhalational anesthetic that’s delivered through the nose and imparts light levels of sedation, which is ideal for patients who want to be relaxed but not necessarily unconscious during their procedure. This type of sedative is safe, effective and can be used for patients of all ages. The process of administering nitrous oxide is easy and quick, and the effects wear off quickly once the procedure has been completed. We often recommend nitrous oxide to patients who are nervous or scared about their upcoming treatment or who have trouble sitting still when work is being done.

There are a few reasons for why you might want to choose nitrous oxide sedation. The most common reason for wanting it is because you're afraid, nervous or panicked during the procedure in the past. Laughing gas also alleviates pain threshold, i.e. dulls out the pain perception and opens up the airways, so it’s particularly helpful in asthmatics and smokers . You might benefit from this type of sedative if you are unable to sit still for long periods of time. Since it’s fully and quickly reversible, there is no “hang-over” aftereffect and no escort is needed for this type of sedation and you will be able to drive shortly after your procedure is completed.

We love using nitrous oxide for quite a few reasons. First, the depth of sedation can be easily increased and decreased. It also works rapidly (in about 2 or 3 minutes) and is very safe for the brain, heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys. Nitrous oxide is great for young patients, patients with disabilities, and patients with dental anxiety—the calming and numbing effects work quickly and there are no needles required!

Although nitrous oxide is very safe, there are situations when it may be not suitable or even harmful. We will review your health and medical history to determine if and when you'd benefit from this type of sedation.

You want to make sure that you are not congested on the day of procedure for the nitrous oxide to work optimally. Laughing gas does not require shots or IVs for administration. Instead, you simply breathe this mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide through a small facemask.

 We will place the mask over your nose and instruct you to breathe in deeply. The sweet-smelling gas will begin to work within minutes, relaxing and calming you down. Many patients report floating-like sensation of being weightless, feeling peaceful or “happy-drunk”.

It could certainly make you laugh more easily(hence the name), while a slight tingling effect is often noted in your face, hands and feet.

You may also have a feeling of general numbness throughout the body and may become a bit lightheaded, but you will still be able to communicate with your doctor throughout the procedure.

Seeking a Comfortable Dental Experience? Book a Nitrous Oxide Sedation Consultation - Choose Lenox Hill for a worry-free dental experience.

Questions About Sedation? Call Us - Our specialists are here to answer your questions.