Nitrous oxide (sometimes referred to as “laughing gas”) is a safe and effective sedative agent. Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose to help you relax and be at ease in the dental seat.
Although nitrous oxide will give you a light-headed or tingling feeling in your arms and legs, it is not intended to put you to sleep. It merely makes you feel more comfortable during dental procedures. You will still be able to hear and respond to the dentists. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off shortly after the mask is removed.