Comfort Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax.

Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is one option your dentist may offer to help make you more comfortable during certain procedures. It is not intended to put you to sleep. You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have. Your dentist will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.

Indications for Nitrous Oxide

•  Mildly apprehensive patient
•  A frightened child
•  To reduce awareness of time and fatigue 
•  To reduce dental stress
•  To control gagging
•  When requested by the patient

Talk to your dentist at University Place Dental about whether nitrous oxide might be a good option for you. Call us at 618-549-0208.

Oral Medication

Oral sedation dentistry is a medical procedure involving the administration of oral sedative drugs, generally to facilitate a dental procedure and reduce patients' fear and anxiety related to the experience.