{"id":612,"date":"2026-08-21T14:55:39","date_gmt":"2026-08-21T14:55:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.chaskadentist.com\/blog\/?p=612"},"modified":"2026-09-02T15:10:51","modified_gmt":"2026-09-02T15:10:51","slug":"what-happens-under-nitrous-oxide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.chaskadentist.com\/blog\/2026\/08\/21\/what-happens-under-nitrous-oxide\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens Under Nitrous Oxide Sedation?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you suffer from dental anxiety or phobia, it\u2019s natural that you\u2019d want to try something to help you relax during your next appointment. Nitrous oxide<\/a> (also known as \u201claughing gas\u201d) is a safe, sweet-smelling gas that you inhale through a nasal mask during dental treatment to feel calmer and more comfortable. Often, patients wonder what they can expect from this type of sedation. Here\u2019s a closer look at how it works, and why nitrous oxide may be the perfect solution to your dental anxiety!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What is Nitrous Oxide?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Nitrous oxide is a colorless, sweet-smelling gas that you breathe in through your nose to help you feel calm during dental treatment. Because it slows your reaction time, you will be less aware of what\u2019s going on in your mouth, and more able to feel comfortable and relaxed when you inhale it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When your appointment is over, your dentist will turn off the nitrous oxide, and have you breathe in pure oxygen for five minutes through the same mask. This will help flush your body of any lingering nitrous oxide and leave you feeling awake and alert. You will then be able to resume your daily routine without any lingering effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Are the Side Effects of Nitrous Oxide?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although nitrous oxide is very safe, there is always a rare chance of experiencing side effects from treatment. Typically, these include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n