Nitrous Oxide in Durham, NC

Do you often feel nervous before a trip to the dentist? If so, we encourage you to ask Dr. Erfan Imeni about receiving nitrous oxide in Durham, North Carolina. We are committed to providing you with a comfortable and efficient dental visit, and invite you to contact Smile Design Modern Dentistry – Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (919) 220-5505 with any questions.

Do you ever feel nervous about visiting the dentist? Does your upcoming treatment make you feel anxious? If so, you may benefit from nitrous oxide (N₂0) sedation at our office. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a nitrogen-oxygen mixture that you inhale through a nose mask during your treatment. As you breathe in the nitrous oxide, you will experience a relaxed or even euphoric sensation. Nitrous oxide can help you feel calm and at ease throughout your treatment. Nitrous oxide sedation is very safe: the effects will wear off within just a few minutes after we remove your nose mask, and you can legally and safely drive yourself home after your appointment.

Nitrous oxide is a good option for any of our patients who suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia. If you feel anxious because you are receiving a treatment you have not experienced before, or if you simply dislike the sounds and sights of the dental office, we may recommend nitrous oxide to help you feel more relaxed. Be certain to discuss your concerns with our dentist and team before your visit so we can help you feel more comfortable during your treatment. We invite you to contact us today to learn more!

Within a few minutes. At the end of your appointment you breathe pure oxygen through the same nose mask, which clears the nitrous oxide from your system quickly and helps prevent grogginess or headache afterwards. Because it leaves the body so fast, nitrous oxide is the one sedation option where you can normally drive yourself home and go straight back to work or school. That is the main practical difference between it and oral sedation, which requires someone else to drive you.

Most people describe a light, warm, floating feeling, sometimes with slight tingling in the hands or feet. You stay fully awake and able to talk with Dr. Imeni throughout, you can still feel pressure and movement, and you stay in control the whole time — nitrous oxide eases anxiety and takes the edge off discomfort rather than putting you to sleep. The level is adjusted during your visit, so if you feel too light-headed or not relaxed enough, say so and we will change it.

It is one of the most widely used and best understood ways to help an anxious child through dental treatment, and the fast recovery means they can usually return to school the same day. It is not right for everyone, though. Blocked nasal passages from a cold or congestion stop it working, and it is generally avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy and in some respiratory conditions and vitamin B12 deficiencies. Tell us about any health conditions and medications and we will confirm whether it is a good fit for you or your child.