Nitrous Oxide Sedation in The Woodlands, TX

A modern practice, MINT dentistry utilizes cutting-edge techniques and technology to help our patients obtain a chic smile with minimal discomfort or stress. We often consult with patients who want to have sexy teeth but are hesitant about getting started because of dental phobia or fears. If anxiety is holding you back from achieving your aesthetic goals, MINT dentistry can help. Our advanced facility in Shenandoah, TX offers nitrous oxide sedation for both routine cleanings and longer procedures to help patients remain comfortable during their appointments. Nitrous oxide (N₂O) gas is an effective sedation method that can help you to safely relax without feeling groggy afterward. Commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used by the board-certified doctors at MINT dentistry to help you feel more comfortable, but still be awake. Schedule a consultation at our office to learn about using nitrous oxide during your appointment.

At MINT dentistry, nitrous oxide gas is one of the most common sedation techniques available. It can be used safely on most patients, both adults and children. Before nitrous oxide gas is used, your dentist will go through your current medications, medical history, and concerns to ensure nitrous oxide gas is a good choice for you. N₂O sedation can be used for most procedures and is often combined with local anesthesia to make you fully comfortable. Nitrous oxide sedation may also be used for dental cleanings and exams if you have dental anxieties or fears that make these procedures stressful for you. Nitrous oxide gas may not be used if you have difficulty breathing through your nose, extreme dentophobia, have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or another medical condition.

To begin your appointment, we will ask you to lay back in a massaging treatment chair, then you will be offered a pair of MINT sunglasses and Beats headphones to help you relax further. Once you are ready, the nitrous oxide gas will be administered through a nasal hood. As you gently inhale the gas, it should start to take effect quickly. Your team will monitor your vital signs and response to the gas, adjusting the volume as needed throughout the procedure, so you remain relaxed. It's normal to feel tingling in your legs and arms, as well as a feeling of vibration, warmth, euphoria, or well-being as the sedation starts to work. Nitrous oxide is typically used along with a local anesthesia such as lidocaine to numb the treated areas. Once the procedure is done, the gas will be turned off and you should quickly come out from the effects of the sedation.

You should recovery quickly from nitrous oxide as the gas leaves your body after a few minutes. You should be able to drive and resume your normal activities after your appointment. Side effects are uncommon, but you may experience temporary headaches, chills, sweating, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue. Please contact MINT dentistry if you have any concerns or side effects that last longer than a few days. To minimize the risk of nausea and vomiting, we suggest you eat a light meal before your procedure and wait at least three hours to eat again.

For patients who are using insurance, our front office will contact your carrier to confirm your coverage regarding sedation. This will help us better estimate your personal costs before your procedure. For patients who don't have insurance, MINT dentistry accepts many forms of payment, including low-interest medical financing, which can make your procedure and nitrous oxide sedation more affordable. At MINT dentistry, we are committed to helping our patients achieve their goal smile without fear or discomfort. If you don't have dental insurance, ask your dentist about the MINT Discount Plan, which can help with the costs of your treatment and nitrous oxide sedation.

Rather than skipping bi-annual cleanings and ignoring toothaches because of fear or anxiety, please contact us to find out more about sedation methods like nitrous oxide gas at our office in Shenandoah, TX. Our highly trained team will answer your questions and address your concerns about the use of sedation with nitrous oxide gas at our office.