Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is one option Southport Dental can offer to help make you comfortable during certain procedures.

How can nitrous oxide help you?

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a technique used by dentists to relieve pain and dental anxiety, making the patient feel more comfortable and relaxed while a dental treatment is performed.

Nitrous Oxide is non-addictive, predictable, and trustworthy and is, perhaps, the most secure sedative in dentistry. During the treatment, you remain fully conscious and have all your natural reflexes. Both adults and children can use it.  You promptly recover in about 5 minutes after the nitrous oxide is turned off, and you are switched to pure oxygen to breathe. It is safe to drive and go back to your normal activities after the visit.

Inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose, nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen to help you relax. You will be asked to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide. You may feel light headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable.

Nitrous oxide is not intended to put you to sleep. You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions Dr. Mills may have.

The benefits of nitrous oxide:

• Great for fearful patients and children
• Keeps you relaxed and reduces discomfort
• The patient remains conscious
• There are limited or no side effects
• The dentist has control over how much is given
• Leaves your body within minutes

Talk to the Southport Dental staff about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.