Pre-Operative Instructions - Nitrous Oxide (adult)
Some patients are given nitrous oxide/oxygen, or what you may know as laughing gas, to relax them for their dental treatment.
Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is given through a small breathing mask which is placed over your nose, allowing you to relax, but without putting you to sleep.
The American Dental Association, recognizes this technique as a very safe, effective technique to use for treating patients’ dental needs.
The gas is mild, easily taken, then with normal breathing, it is quickly eliminated from the body. It is non-addictive. While inhaling nitrous oxide/oxygen, you remain fully conscious and keeps all natural reflexes.
Prior to your appointment:
Please inform us of any change to your health and/or medical condition.
Tell us about any respiratory condition that makes breathing through the nose difficult for you. It may limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide/oxygen.
Let us know if you are taking any medication on the day of the appointment.
Please refrain from food or drink for a minimum of 2 hours prior to appointment time. Sometimes when patients have food in their stomach when we administer Nitrous Oxide they may become nauseous and vomiting may occur.