Nitrous Oxide in Salem, OR

At King Dental we have the option of Nitrous Oxide. This anesthetic is a safe and effective sedative. It is known to calm patients during dental procedures. Dr. King provides nitrous oxide for children and adults. This anesthetic is given through a mask, as you breathe normally the medication enters the lungs giving you a calming effect within minutes.

What will I feel while breathing Nitrous Oxide?

Our patients have reported smelling a faint but sweet smell, with nitrous oxide, as well as experiencing a sense of relaxation. Some patients may note a feeling of giddiness, which is how it got its nickname, laughing gas. Other patients may feel like they are in a dream-like state or a tingly sensation. Most importantly, nitrous oxide raises your pain threshold and time may seem to pass quickly. If you are concerned about the sights, sounds or sensations of dental treatments, nitrous oxide may be the best option for you. Dr. King can answer your questions about this sedation and help you decide if it is the best option for you.

Is Nitrous Oxide safe?

Nitrous oxide is a very safe form of sedation. In fact, it is one of the safest sedatives. It is well tolerated by patients of all ages and is non-allergenic. Many like that with nitrous oxide, they remain fully conscious. You will be capable of responding to our questions and can make requests. Additionally, the effects of this sedation wear off within minutes of removing the mask, most of our patients are back to normal before leaving the dental chair. You will not be required to have a driver to take you home following the use of nitrous oxide. Our patients can almost always leave the office by themselves if they choose.

Our staff are fully trained in the application of this variety of sedation and we are confident that you will be relaxed and safe during your procedure

How do I prepare for sedation before my appointment?

As a precaution, we ask our patients to not eat for about two hours prior to use of nitrous oxide. When patients have come with a full stomach, there has been occasional reports of nausea. We also ask that you inform us of any medications that you are currently taking. Respiratory issues may make using the mask difficult, please inform us beforehand if this will be an issue for you.

What can I expect following my sedation appointment?

Headaches occasionally follow the use of nitrous oxide. We have tried to relieve that with five minutes of pure oxygen after the nitrous has been turned off, helping to wash the sedation from your system. After a brief period of sitting and breathing oxygen, or just relaxing, most people find it quite easy to head home under their own care. If you happen to know that nitrous oxide has a more intense effect on you, or if you are unsure, it is never a bad idea to have someone who would be willing to bring you home.

For more information on Nitrous Oxide and other sedation options,
contact our Salem, OR office at: 503-588-0061