Nitrous Oxide

Laughing Gas

Nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.

Nitrous oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.

Nitrous oxide is available to use in our Walnut Creek location only, if requested prior to your appointment, and for an additional fee that is not billed to your insurance.

Reasons to Not Use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize nitrous oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, MS, a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your endodontist for a “5 minute trial” to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.