When inhaled, this gas causes you to relax—you won’t be asleep, as you will be able to hear and respond to your dentist’s requests, but you will be in a calmer frame of mind.

Not only does nitrous oxide relax you, but it also minimizes pain during your treatment and causes a sense of euphoria, which, for some, makes their dental experience much more enjoyable. With this mode of sedation, you can go to the office and go home by yourself—not requiring that a family member or a friend accompany you, as would be needed with other modes of sedation.