Nitrous Oxide Sedation in Katy, 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 wish to improve their smile 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 Houston, TX offers nitrous oxide sedation for dental procedures and services 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 with a member of our team to discuss using nitrous oxide while undergoing your dental procedures.

At MINT dentistry, nitrous oxide gas is one of the most common sedation techniques available. It can be used safely on both adults and children. Before nitrous oxide gas is used, our team will go through your medical history, current medications, and concerns to ensure nitrous oxide is a good choice for you. N₂O sedation can be used for most minimally invasive procedures and is often combined with local anesthesia to maximize comfort. Nitrous oxide sedation may also be used for standard dental examinations or cleanings if you have dental anxieties or fears that make these procedures stressful for you. Nitrous oxide gas may not be suitable if you have difficulty breathing through your nose, extreme phobias, have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or certain other conditions.

After settling into one of our luxurious treatment chairs, you will be offered a pair of MINT sunglasses and Beats headphones so that you can relax in style during your treatment. Before your procedure begins, the nitrous oxide gas will be administered through a nasal hood. As you gently inhale the gas, it will quickly start relaxing you. A member of the MINT dentistry team will monitor your vital signs and response to the gas, adjusting the volume as needed throughout the procedure, so you remain comfortable. You may notice tingling in your arms and legs, as well as a feeling of vibration, warmth, euphoria, or well-being as the gas takes effect. Nitrous oxide is normally used along with a local anesthesia such as lidocaine to numb your mouth in the areas being treated. Once the procedure is complete, 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 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 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, our team suggests you eat a light meal before your procedure and wait at least three hours after you leave before eating a large meal.

If you have dental insurance, our skilled support staff will contact your carrier to understand your coverage regarding nitrous oxide sedation. This will help us better estimate your out-of-pocket costs before your procedure. If you do not have dental insurance, MINT dentistry accepts many forms of payment, including medical financing, which can help to make your treatment and N₂O sedation more affordable. MINT dentistry is committed to helping our patients achieve their goal smile as painlessly as possible. If you cannot afford nitrous oxide sedation but have dental phobias, ask a member of the MINT dentistry team about the MINT Discount Plan, which can help with the costs of your treatment and nitrous oxide sedation.

If you skip routine dental appointments or you're ignoring dental pain because of fear or anxiety, please schedule a consultation to learn more about nitrous oxide sedation at our office in Houston, TX. Our highly trained support staff will be happy to answer your questions and address your concerns about the use of N₂O sedation at our office.