Nitrous Oxide – Happy Gas

Central Dental offers nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing or happy gas) to patients to help alleviate anxiety.

If anxiety is preventing you from going to the dentist, the administration of happy gas by your dentist may help you manage and overcome this. Happy gas can be used for people with:

• Strong gag reflex
• Very low pain threshold
• Very sensitive teeth
• Children who cannot sit still in the dental chair

Nitrous Oxide is a mild sedative agent that safely and effectively manages anxiety during dental treatment. Although nitrous sedation doesn’t eliminate the need for dental injections, it decreases pain sensation dramatically, therefore making them more comfortable, further reducing anxiety.

Nitrous is inhaled through a small mask that is placed over the nose. You will be asked to breathe in and out through your nose during the procedure. The gas may make you feel light-headed, tingly, or heavy in your arms or legs as your body starts to relax.  You will still be aware of what is going on around you and will be able to follow any instructions given by your dentist.

Nitrous oxide works quickly and once the procedure finishes will also wear off quickly.  Most people are fine to drive immediately after their appointment, with minimal precautions. The dentist will assess your medical history, and in the case of children, their age (usually 6 years and over) and level of comprehension, to decide if nitrous sedation is suitable. If nitrous oxide sedation is not suitable, oral sedatives in tablet form can be prescribed following an assessment by the dentist.

Want to discuss your situation? You can give us a call on 3343 2100 with any questions that you may have or chat with us online. If you are worried about the cost of a filling then you can contact us for a quote. If you know you would like to book an appointment then you can book your appointment online or call us to find a convenient time.