Nitrous Oxide is commonly referred to as ‘laughing gas’ and is used in dentistry to provide relaxation, relieve apprehension, and increase the attention span of small children. Nitrous Oxide is not used in place of local anesthesia: it is used in addition to numbing agents to increase the comfort and placidity of the patient. The patient will be fully awake and alert during the procedure and will be aware of their surroundings and able to respond to questions and direction.
On the morning before the procedure, we suggest that patients eat a light breakfast. After the procedure, children should be monitored for clumsiness as it can take a short period of time for all effects to wear off.
Some effects/complications of Nitrous Oxide may include, but are not limited to: tingling in legs, fingers, toes, cheeks, lips, tongue or head, heaviness in the legs, a light floating feeling, resonance in the voice, a warm feeling throughout the body, flushed cheeks, fits of laughter, giddiness, detachment or disassociation from the environment, lightweight or floating sensation, sluggishness in motion, slurring or repetition of words, feeling of nausea, vomiting, agitation, and vivid imagination. ALL of these effects are temporary.
Please be advised that most dental insurances do not cover the use of Nitrous Oxide; therefore, you are responsible for the cost of the treatment at the time of the appointment. We suggest the use of Nitrous Oxide as a benefit to the patient. Use of Nitrous Oxide is supplemental to local anesthesia and requires your consent.
If Nitrous Oxide is to be used, we will ask the parent or guardian to sign an informed consent agreement. This agreement is attached below should you wish to review it or sign it in advance.
Click here to download N2O consent form.