Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide is a sweet smelling, colorless gas. A mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, is administered through a nasal mask. The patient remains conscious and in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has both a sedative and analgesic (pain-controlling) effect. Patients are able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep.

While there are no major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulty breathing. Nitrous oxide is used in many procedures ranging from simple oral surgery to more involved procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions and surgical implant placements.