Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a mild, inhaled sedation used during visits at Arapahoe Dental. Quick to take effect and fast to wear off, it suits patients with mild anxiety or a sensitive gag reflex.
A blend of nitrous oxide and oxygen inhaled through a small mask over the nose during your dental treatment.
The gas mixture is delivered throughout your appointment at the Boulder office, then switched to pure oxygen at the end. Effects fade within minutes, and most patients can drive themselves home.
Nitrous oxide takes the edge off anxiety, relaxes the gag reflex, and makes dental visits more comfortable without a long recovery period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is a gentle option for patients with mild nervousness or a sensitive gag reflex. Because it clears the system quickly, it's also a good fit for anyone who needs to drive themselves home afterward.
You breathe the gas through a small nosepiece and feel a light, calm sensation within minutes. You stay fully awake and aware, just more relaxed, and the level can be adjusted throughout the visit.
It works almost immediately and only lasts while you're breathing it. Once the mask comes off at the end, the effects fade within a few minutes.
It's one of the mildest forms of sedation, so it's best for mild anxiety rather than deeper fears — for those, oral or IV sedation may suit better. Let the team know if you have respiratory concerns.
There's essentially no downtime. Because it wears off so fast, most people drive themselves home and carry on with their day as normal.
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