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Nitrous Oxide: Q&A
QUESTION: DO I HAVE TO HAVE SOMETHING OVER MY FACE?
A: Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that we mix with oxygen and administer through a mask that covers your nose. This mask also has a scavenger system attached to it to prevent us from inhaling it.
QUESTION: HOW LONG WILL I BE SEDATED FOR?
A: Unlike oral or IV-sedation, nitrous oxide sedation allows us to control your level of sedation rapidly. Nitrous oxide takes about 3-5 minutes to take effect and once you are no longer breathing nitrous oxide it wears off in 3-5 minutes as well.
QUESTION: AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR NITROUS OXIDE?
A: Nitrous oxide might be the right option for you if you have ever experienced:
- a fear and anxiety of needles, drills, sounds and/or smells of a dental office
- a sensitive gag reflex
- previous traumatic dental experiences
- allergies to other types of sedation
- If your anxiety is more pronounced, we will likely recommend IV-sedation which allows for a deeper level of sedation than nitrous oxide.