Learn the Benefits of Nitrous Oxide at Our Abingdon, VA Dentist Office

When's the last time you felt relaxed at a dental visit? When you make an appointment with Dr. Johnston, you work with an Abingdon, VA dentist who wants to help you feel comfortable, never anxious. One sedation option we use is nitrous oxide.

Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a colorless gas that is often used for its calming effect.
After reviewing your health history, we determine if nitrous oxide is right for you. Nitrous oxide is safe, effective and helps you feel more relaxed during your dental appointment.

Nitrous Oxide during a Typical Visit

To use nitrous oxide, we place a small mask over your nose and you simply breathe normally. It takes just a few minutes for most patients to notice the effects. People most often describe the feeling as being relaxed, unconcerned, happy, slightly numb, and disconnected from what is happening around them.

Since nitrous oxide does not numb the mouth, we may also recommend anesthetic for some dental procedures.

Controlling the Effects

During the procedure, let us know if you want us to adjust your nitrous oxide dosage to fit your needs. You can also control the dosage by your breathing. The more deeply you breathe through your nose, the more you feel nitrous oxide's effects.

Because there are no lingering after-effects from nitrous oxide, you should be safe to drive home following an appointment.

Have further questions? Don't hesitate to call our office at (276) 623-2211.