Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas, Inhaled Sedation) – Greater Houston, TX Area

Going to the dentist is not an easy task for many people even when it involves just a teeth cleaning. At the Texas Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we want our patients to feel at-ease during their visits. We offer nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, which is a sedative administered via inhalation and works as an anesthetic to eliminate discomfort. Houston, TX area board-certified Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Guy Lewis and his team understand that some patients avoid the dentist from fear or anxiety, so he offers nitrous oxide sedation for routine procedures like dental exam and cleanings as well as during longer treatments, like fillings and dental crowns. During this time on needed dental treatment, we want our patients to feel completely at-ease, but able to respond to simple commands throughout the appointment. Dr. Lewis and our compassionate staff at TCCD want to help each patient overcome their fear and anxieties of the going to the dentist. Schedule your appointment and ask about your sedation dentistry options.

Prior to the procedure, the dentist will administer the nitrous oxide to through inhalation tube placed in the nose. The gas will continue to be administered throughout the procedure with the dentist and his staff monitoring and adjusting the level of sedation as needed. Nitrous oxide will help the patient remain relaxed and calm throughout the entire procedure, while remaining awake and coherent enough to follow the dentist’s instructions. Following the procedure, the nitrous oxide is turned off and the effects wear off quickly.

Nitrous oxide is considered a safe method to provide patients with the level of relaxation during their dental procedure. Nitrous oxide is commonly and safely used in many dental procedures. 

In most cases, patients are able to drive shortly after nitrous oxide sedation. This is patient specific, depending on the amount of work being done and the level of gas used. The dentist will tell patients during consultation if a driver will be required after their procedure and a ride will be arranged if circumstance change during the procedure.

Nitrous oxide does not put patients to sleep, it simply keeps the patient calm and relaxed throughout their procedure. Some patients may fall asleep, but this is not a reason for concern since they should be easily woken up.

At our Houston and The Woodlands, TX offices, patients can get great dental care without fear or anxiety. Our board-certified cosmetic dentists will discuss with the benefits of nitrous oxide sedation to help you begin your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile.