Dental anxiety can make even the simplest dental appointment stressful for you and your family. That’s why many dental practices offer sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry uses nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”) to help create feelings of calm, reducing fear and allowing the patient to relax. But despite its benefits, there are many misconceptions about it. If you’re interested in sedation for you or your child, here are a few common myths you needn’t worry about!

If you or your child suffers from anxiety or dental phobia (odontophobia) you or they may need a little help relaxing at your oral health appointments. Nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”) to the rescue! Nitrous oxide is a safe, colorless, mildly sweet-smelling gas that is used as a sedative in many dental procedures. It helps elicit feelings of calmness and reduces your gag reflex, yet it keeps you awake and alert enough to follow instructions and communicate clearly with your dentist.