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Nitrous Oxide Sedation – Indianapolis, IN

Completely Comfortable Dentistry

woman relaxing on pillowMany people know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. We administer nitrous oxide dental sedation in Indianapolis, IN to enhance patient comfort and relieve anxiety for patients of all ages. After you're comfortably seated in the dental chair, you'll inhale the gas (a nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture) through a nasal mask. We control the amount of nitrous you receive to ensure safety. You begin to relax and will not recognize pain, so the dentist can perform dental work while you stay completely comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide subside once we remove the mask, so if nitrous is the only anesthesia you receive, you will be capable of driving yourself home following the visit and can continue your daily activities as normal.

Many people know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. When it is inhaled, it produces feelings of well-being and relaxation. It also dulls the body’s pain response, resulting in completely comfortable dentistry. We administer this form of sedation to enhance the patient experience and relieve anxiety for anyone who wants to enjoy an easy dental care experience. Read on below to learn more about it, and if you have questions about any of the technology or comforts available in our practice, get in touch with us.

Why Choose Indianapolis Family Dentistry for Nitrous Oxide?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?

Woman wearing nitrous oxide nasal mask, relaxing

Nitrous oxide is suitable for a wide range of patients, including those who:

Nitrous oxide is suitable for patients of virtually all ages, including both children and adults. There are only a few groups for whom it is not recommended, including pregnant individuals and those with certain respiratory conditions. Our team will assess your risk factors to determine if it is right for you.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

Close-up of nozzles on nitrous oxide machine

Nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask that is connected to a machine. The dental team uses controls on the machine to deliver a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen to the patient. Almost as soon as you begin to breathe in the gas, you should begin to notice its effects. Most patients feel calm and relaxed under its influence, but a sensation of giddiness is also common.

After your procedure, the nasal mask will be removed, and the effects of the nitrous oxide will wear off within minutes. You can expect to be alert enough to drive yourself home.

Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide

Couple relaxing at home on sofa

Even though the effects of nitrous oxide do not linger for a long time, we may still ask you to stay in our office for a few minutes after your procedure, until we are sure that you are well enough to drive yourself home. Some patients experience a mild headache after exposure to nitrous oxide, but that should wear off quickly.

You will be able to return to your normal activities, such as work or school. However, it may be wise for you to go home and rest if your dental procedure was invasive or extensive. Be sure to follow your dentist’s post-treatment instructions!