Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Relax through your visit, drive home after.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) takes the edge off anxiety in minutes and wears off quickly, so most patients can drive themselves home.
What is nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative gas mixed with oxygen and breathed through a small nose mask. It helps you feel calm and relaxed while staying awake and responsive. Effects fade within minutes after the mask is removed. Its main limitation: it's mild, so it may not be enough for severe anxiety.
Who is a candidate?
Often a good fit
- Dental anxiety
- Strong gag reflex
- Longer appointments
- Children who are nervous
Needs extra care or planning
- Early pregnancy
- Severe lung disease
- B12 deficiency
- Recent ear or eye surgery
When an exam is needed: We review your health history first.
Problems it can address
Limitations: Doesn't replace local anesthetic; it's a relaxation aid.
Benefits and disadvantages
Benefits
- Works in minutes
- Wears off quickly
- Adjustable
- Most can drive home
Disadvantages
- Mild effect
- Some feel nausea
- Not for everyone
The treatment process
- 1
Review
Health history check.
- 2
Mask
A comfortable nose mask is placed.
- 3
Relax
Gas is adjusted to your comfort.
- 4
Treatment
Your dental care proceeds.
- 5
Oxygen
Pure oxygen clears the gas before you leave.
Timeline: Takes effect in 3–5 minutes; clears in about 5 minutes.
Recovery and aftercare
What to expect
Discomfort: None.
Downtime: None for most patients.
Aftercare
- Eat lightly beforehand
- Tell us if you feel nauseous
Call us right away if you notice
- Lasting dizziness or headache
Longevity and outcomes
Used per visit.
What affects your result
- Anxiety level
Possible complications
- Nausea
- Light-headedness
Cost and payment options
Priced per visit; available on our Comfort Menu. You'll get a written, itemized quote before treatment begins, and we'll check your insurance benefits for you.
What affects the price
- Length of visit
- Insurance
Insurance & financing
We accept most PPO plans and offer financing through CareCredit, Sunbit and others.
Comparison with alternatives
Comfort Menu
Headphones, blankets, TV.
Oral sedation
Stronger; needs a driver.
Clinical case examples
Real, patient-authorized cases for this treatment are being added soon, with diagnosis, reasoning and results.
View our Before & After Gallery →Why choose Neo Dental?
Patient reviews
Read what our patients say, in their own words, on independent review sites.
Frequently asked questions
Will I be asleep?+
No, you'll be awake and relaxed.
Can I drive after?+
Most patients can.
Is it safe for kids?+
Yes, it's widely used for children.
How fast does it wear off?+
Within minutes.
Will I still need numbing?+
Yes, for most procedures.
Is it covered?+
Sometimes; we'll check.
Your care team & booking
Dr. Sol Shahri
General and cosmetic dentist leading every treatment plan at Neo Dental. This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Sol Shahri.
Meet the team →Related treatments
Not sure if you need nitrous oxide sedation?
Book an exam and we'll explain every option, including the most conservative one.
Book your visit