Laughing gas — nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen — is the simplest form of sedation we offer, and the one our nervous patients ask about most.
What it feels like
You breathe normally through a small mask over your nose. Within two or three minutes most people feel warm, heavy and pleasantly detached, a little like the moment before sleep. You stay awake, you can talk to us, and you can raise your hand at any time.
What it doesn’t do
It doesn’t put you to sleep, and it doesn’t replace numbing. We still numb the tooth — the gas simply makes the whole experience feel smaller and further away.
Afterwards
When the mask comes off, we give you pure oxygen for a few minutes. The effects fade quickly, which is why you can usually drive home and go back to work.
Who it isn’t for
It’s not suitable in early pregnancy, with some lung conditions, or with a blocked nose on the day. We go through your medical history first.
If you’ve avoided the dentist because of how it feels, laughing gas is a gentle place to start.