Nitrous Oxide Sedation in Midland, MI

If you often find yourself experiencing anxiety while at the dentist, you could benefit from nitrous oxide sedation at Great Lakes Bay Dental. Our practice in Midland, MI features nitrous oxide sedation for long, complex procedures (or even common procedures, such as tooth-colored fillings) to help patients with dental anxieties and fears during standard visits. Nitrous oxide (N₂O) gas is a proven sedation technique that helps you safely relax during your appointment. Commonly known as laughing gas, N₂O is used by experienced dentist Dr. Daniel Clement to keep you comfortable while you remain awake. Schedule a consultation with to learn more about nitrous oxide and other sedation options we can utilize during your dental visits.

Nitrous oxide is a very popular sedation technique, and it can be used safely on children and adults alike. Prior to approving the use of nitrous oxide, Dr. Clement will go through your current medications, medical history, and concerns to ensure nitrous oxide gas is a good choice for you. N₂O sedation may be used for longer or minimally invasive procedures in conjunction with local anesthesia to help reduce your discomfort. Nitrous oxide sedation may also be used if you have dental anxieties or fears that prevent you from visiting the dentist regularly. Nitrous oxide gas might not be right for you if you have difficulty breathing through your nose, extreme phobias, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other similar conditions.

Before the procedure begins, the nitrous oxide will be administered using a nasal hood. As you inhale the gas, it will quickly act to start relaxing you. Dr. Clement or a member of his team will monitor your health and response to the gas, and adjust the medication as necessary throughout the procedure so you remain relaxed. You may notice tingling in your arms and legs, as well as a feeling of warmth, vibration, and euphoria as the gas kicks in. Nitrous oxide is typically used alongside local anesthesia, such as lidocaine, to numb your mouth. After the procedure is complete, the gas will be turned off, and the effects should quickly wear off.

Recovery from N₂O sedation is usually immediate as the gas is eliminated within 3 – 5 minutes. You should be able to drive and resume your normal activities when you leave our office. Side effects are uncommon, but you could experience chills, sweating, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or headaches. Don't hesitate to contact our staff if you have any questions or concerns. To reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting, our team suggests you eat a light meal before your procedure and then wait around three hours after you leave before consuming a heavy meal.

If you have dental insurance, our team will contact your provider to clarify any potential benefits in regards to nitrous oxide sedation. This will help us calculate your out-of-pocket costs before your procedure. If you do not have dental insurance, Great Lakes Bay Dental accepts many forms of payment, including medical financing, to help make your treatment and N₂O sedation more affordable.

If you avoid attending regular dental appointments or if you're dealing with dental pain because of fear of the dentist, please consider a consultation with experience dentist Dr. Clement to learn more about nitrous oxide sedation at our dental facility in Midland, MI. He and his skilled staff will be happy to answer your questions and address your concerns about the use of nitrous oxide sedation at Great Lakes Bay Dental.