Nitrous Oxide Sedation | Roseville, CA

Every year, millions of patients avoid the dentist’s office due to anxiety or fear. In Roseville, CA, the team at Sierra Gate Family Dental understands the seriousness of dental anxiety, which is why we aim to make our office a calm and relaxing environment. When patients are nervous about an appointment, we may recommend nitrous oxide sedation. Nitrous oxide has been proven effective at calming nerves and minimizing feelings of anxiousness so our patients can get the treatment they need and deserve.

Nitrous oxide is one of the most common dental sedation techniques and can be utilized safely on both children and adults. Prior to recommending the use of nitrous oxide, Dr. Ardy Keshtkar or a staff member will assess your current medications, medical history, and concerns to ensure nitrous oxide gas is a good choice for you. Nitrous oxide sedation may be utilized for longer or routine procedures in conjunction with local anesthesia to help minimize potential discomfort. Nitrous oxide sedation can also help with dental anxieties or fears that keep you from visiting the dentist. Nitrous oxide gas may not be suitable if you have extreme phobias, trouble breathing through your nose, have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other similar health concerns.

What To Expect With Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Prior to beginning the procedure, the nasal mask will be placed over the patient’s nose as they continue to breathe normally. Within a few minutes, the effect of the gas will begin to take effect. Common sensations include tingling in the arms or legs or a warm, relaxed feeling throughout the body. Once the nitrous oxide gas has reached its full effect, the dentist will begin the procedure without any stress for the patient.

How Nitrous Oxide Works

Sedation with nitrous oxide is simple and effective. Before your treatment begins, we will place a small nasal mask over your nose. As you breathe in, the gas enters your body and begins to take effect within just a few minutes. You might feel a slight tingling sensation in your arms or legs or a general feeling of warmth and relaxation. We wait for the nitrous oxide to take effect before beginning your procedure so you are comfortable and relaxed prior to your treatment beginning.

Nitrous oxide has many benefits for patients, and not just those who have dental phobias. It can:

• Help reduce an overactive gag reflex
• Make you comfortable during long procedures
• Eliminate your anxiety about being in the dental chair

Benefits of Nitrous Oxide Sedation

• Customizable – The amount of nitrous oxide gas administered can be adjusted throughout the procedure.
• Rapid Recovery – The effects of the gas wear off quickly, which means there is no prolonged downtime and patients can drive themselves home.
• Eliminates anxiety – Patients feel calm and euphoric for the duration of the procedure.

Safety of Nitrous Oxide

Patients often ask us if nitrous oxide is safe, and the answer is a resounding yes. We are highly experienced and trained in its administration and customize the dose to your specific needs. We can even adjust the dose during your treatment as needed. You will be able to speak, answer questions, and function normally, and the effects wear off shortly after the gas stops flowing. You can even drive yourself home from your appointment without relying on a friend or family member to drive you.

Say Goodbye to Dental Phobia with Nitrous Oxide Sedation

If you have been putting off getting your teeth cleaned or other dental treatments that you know you need, we encourage you to call Sierra Gate Family Dental today to book your appointment. With a gentle and compassionate approach to care and nitrous oxide sedation, patients feel relaxed and at home when they are in our Roseville, CA office.