What Does Laughing Gas Do at the Dentist? Your Guide to Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Laughing gas can turn a scary trip to the dentist into a walk in the park. If you’re nervous about dental treatment, this article is packed with clear answers and first-hand insight. Read on to find out why laughing gas changes dental visits for the better, how it feels, how it’s used, and what happens before, during, and after your appointment.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: What is Laughing Gas?

I remember the first time I heard about laughing gas. The idea that a dentist could help you relax and even giggle during treatment sounded too good to be real. But laughing gas, which dentists call nitrous oxide, is a real tool that’s changed dental care for millions of people.

Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with a slight sweet smell. Dentists mix it with oxygen and let you breathe it in through a small, soft rubber mask that sits over your nose. You stay awake, but you feel much calmer—sometimes even a little floaty.

Dr. Joe Dental, a certified dentist, checked this guide so you get facts right from professionals.

2. Why Do Dentists Use Laughing Gas?

Maybe you’ve heard a friend say, “I hate going to the dentist!” If you’re like most people, the thought of drilling, poking, or having someone in your mouth makes you feel nervous or even scared.

Here are the main three reasons most dentists use laughing gas:

• It calms you down. Almost 36% of adults say they feel uneasy at dental visits, and 12% say they’re really scared. Fear can make people miss visits, causing bigger tooth problems later.
• It keeps you comfy during longer dental work. If you need a filling, crown, or even if you gag easily, nitrous oxide helps you sit still without worry.
• It helps dentists do their best work. When you’re more relaxed, it’s easier for your dentist to clean or fix your teeth.

Nitrous oxide isn’t just for adults! Kids’ dentists often use it for little ones who are scared or can’t sit still. Even if you only need a cleaning, laughing gas can make the visit nicer.

3. How Does Laughing Gas Work?

Ever wonder why people feel less afraid or a bit giggly after a few breaths of nitrous oxide?

Here’s what happens:

When laughing gas reaches your brain, it slows down nerve signals, especially ones that carry fear or worry. The oxygen keeps you safe and awake. Most people say they feel calm but can still answer questions and follow directions.

Extra safety steps include checking your oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter and watching your vital signs. That way, your dentist knows you’re good.

4. What Does Laughing Gas Feel Like?

Picture this: You sit back in the dental chair. The mask goes on. You start to breathe normal. Now what?

Here’s what most patients (including me) say:

• A wave of calmness or relaxation. You don’t really stress about what’s happening.
• A warm, tingly feeling in your hands, feet, maybe your legs—you might feel like you’re a bit floaty.
• You feel extra happy, silly, or a little lightheaded. Maybe you even want to laugh (that’s why it’s called “laughing gas”).
• Things feel a bit different. Maybe sounds and lights seem softer, and time feels slower or faster.
• You know you’re awake, and you can still talk to the dentist.

You won’t be knocked out. You’re still very much aware, and you still breathe on your own. Laughing gas is sometimes called conscious sedation in dentistry.

If you worry about pain, remember: Laughing gas doesn’t block pain all the way, so dentists usually still use a local shot to numb your gums. Both together make the dental work easy and stress-free.

5. The Top Benefits of Using Laughing Gas

Why do so many people (and dentists) like laughing gas?

• Calms you down quickly and well. You can walk in nervous and relax before the dentist starts.
• Works and wears off fast. Unlike pills or shots, you don’t have to wait hours to feel normal. As soon as the gas is off and you get pure oxygen, the funny feeling goes away—usually in 5 to 10 minutes.
• Safe for kids and grown-ups. Nitrous oxide has been used for years and is very safe.
• You stay awake, just calm. No “dental blackout.” You’ll remember it, and you can ask for a break.
• Helps with gagging. If you gag easy or worry about swallowing, nitrous oxide helps keep that in check.
• Easier visits for people with special needs. Patients with autism or body movement troubles can feel better and safer.

From working in dental offices, I can say: Patients often tell me, “I wish I’d tried this sooner!” It makes dental care easy and stress-free—and that means healthier teeth in the end.

6. Is Laughing Gas Safe? Understanding the Side Effects

Safety matters! The good news: Nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedatives in dentistry, as long as it’s given by someone who knows what they’re doing.

Some info and facts:

• Serious side effects are very rare if the dentist gets the dose right and gives enough oxygen.
• Less than 1% of people feel anything besides maybe slight dizziness or a little nausea (usually if you ate a big meal right before).
• Groups like the American Dental Association (ADA) and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) say bad reactions are almost always minor and go away fast.

Possible mild side effects might be:

• Dizziness or feeling light-headed
• Nausea (very rare, usually if you ate too much)
• Headache (goes away after you breathe oxygen)

Very rare, serious reactions:

• Allergic reactions (almost never happen)
• Trouble breathing (usually only for people with bad lung disease)
• Vitamin B12 problems (ask your dentist if you’ve got special diets or health issues)

Who should skip laughing gas?

Dentists always check your health first. You should avoid nitrous oxide if:

• You’re pregnant (especially early on)
• You have bad lung problems (like emphysema or COPD)
• You have a cold, sinus or ear infection
• You are low in vitamin B12

The dentist will always watch you, and the room has a system to keep the air clean. When you’re done, you’ll breathe straight oxygen to clear away the gas.

7. What Happens at Your Nitrous Oxide Appointment?

Here’s what usually happens:

Before:

• The dentist goes through your health history and explains the steps to you.
• You’ll be told to eat a light meal (not heavy) a few hours before.
• They ask about allergies, if you’re sick, and any medicines—just to be sure you’re safe.

During:

• You sit in the dental chair.
• The dentist places a small, comfy mask over your nose.
• They turn on the gas and oxygen, start at a low level, and turn it up until you feel good.
• They keep track of your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen.
• You stay awake and can let them know if something feels weird.

After:

• Dentist switches off the gas and gives you pure oxygen for about five minutes.
• The funny feelings go away fast. Most people are ready to leave in 10 minutes or so.
• Most adults and kids can drive or go to school/work right after—but always check with your dentist.

8. Who Can Use Laughing Gas Safely?

Laughing gas is a good choice for:

• Adults and kids who are nervous about dental visits
• People with a low pain limit (even the thought of a filling is scary)
• Those who gag easily (dental tools make you choke? Nitrous oxide helps.)
• People who need longer or tricky treatment like root canals, crowns, or even dental implants

It’s not for everyone!

People with these problems should tell their dentist first:

• Serious breathing trouble (like asthma, COPD, or emphysema)
• Blocked nose or ears from a cold or infection
• Pregnant women in the first months
• Certain mental health conditions
• People with Vitamin B12 problems

Dentists always talk about these at the first visit.

9. Laughing Gas vs Other Types of Dental Sedation

Here’s a simple comparison. Dental sedation comes in different types, and knowing about them can help you choose.

Laughing gas is special because it works fast, fades fast, and is safe for most people. If your dentist suggests it, they want you to be comfy and not stressed.

For treatments like crowns, bridges, or dentures, many clinics team up with a dental ceramics lab to make sure your teeth work and look right.

10. Frequently Asked Questions About Laughing Gas

Can I drive after laughing gas?

Most grown-ups can drive home because the effects wear off in 10-15 minutes. Ask your dentist—if you feel sleepy or dizzy, wait.

Can I eat before laughing gas?

Eat a small meal a few hours before. Avoid big, heavy meals close to your visit to lower the chance of feeling sick.

Is laughing gas addictive?

No, it’s not addictive when the dentist uses it.

Will I remember my visit?

Yes. You’ll be awake, though you may feel like time went by fast.

How much does it cost?

Costs depend on where you live and your treatment. Ask the dental office for a price. Most people say the comfort is worth it!

If you want a custom dental night guard or retainer, clinics working with a night guard dental lab can help make your dental care smoother.

What if I don’t want laughing gas?

No worries! Dentists have other choices, like numbing shots, pills, or even IV stuff. The important thing is what works for you.

11. Summary: Key Points to Remember

• Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is a safe, quick, and simple way to relax at the dentist.
• It helps kids and grown-ups get dental work done without fear or pain.
• The effects come fast and go away fast, so you can get on with your day.
• Dentists use a soft nose mask and watch you the whole time.
• Most people feel calm and floaty—but stay awake, able to talk.
• It’s safe for most—but not for some with certain health problems.
• If you need crowns, bridges, or other dental work, clinics often work with top labs to get you the best teeth.

Don’t let worry stop you from caring for your teeth. Ask your dentist about laughing gas or other ways to relax today!

Quick Facts Checklist

• Laughing gas makes you calm, happy, and relaxed—never asleep.
• Side effects are rare, mild, and go away fast.
• Dentists use it for kids and adults for most types of dental care.
• You can usually get back to your day after the appointment.
• Always talk about your worries with your dentist—they want to help!

Checked by Dr. Joe Dental, Board-Certified Dentist

References:

• American Dental Association (ADA): Laughing Gas Guidelines
• British Dental Journal (2007): Dental Anxiety Numbers
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD): Practice Guidelines
• Clinical studies and patient feedback, checked by Dr. Joe Dental