{"id":81,"date":"2026-02-24T22:35:10","date_gmt":"2026-02-24T22:35:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.glastonburydentalcare.com\/blog\/?p=81"},"modified":"2026-02-24T22:35:13","modified_gmt":"2026-02-24T22:35:13","slug":"fall-asleep-nitrous-oxide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.glastonburydentalcare.com\/blog\/fall-asleep-nitrous-oxide\/","title":{"rendered":"Will I Fall Asleep When I Get Laughing Gas?"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"Woman<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

You might know nitrous oxide sedation as its common name: laughing gas. This method has been used for a long time \u2013 since the 1840s. It gained popularity as a safe way to help patients feel more comfortable and relaxed while receiving a wide range of treatments. Sedation dentistry<\/a> is sometimes referred to as \u201csleep dentistry,\u201d but will you actually fall asleep? Here\u2019s what you can expect during your treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that can make dental treatment more comfortable by keeping patients in a relaxed, euphoric state. The gas is mixed with oxygen and administered through a small mask that fits over your nose. These is another special you need to do \u2013 just breathe normally. Your dental team is able to adjust the nitrous oxide and oxygen levels to keep you comfortable throughout your treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Will Nitrous Oxide Sedation Put Me to Sleep?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Inhaling this gas will decrease your awareness and sensations of what is happening around you. It may reduce your anxiety levels, decrease your gag reflex, and reduce discomfort. Sedation dentistry is sometimes referred to as \u201csleep dentistry,\u201d but this isn\u2019t meant to be taken literally. Nitrous oxide sedation is not intended to induce sleep. It is possible to feel so relaxed that you drift off a little bit, but it will not put you to sleep. You will be able to answer questions and follow instructions given to you by the dental team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are There Negative Effects of Nitrous Oxide Sedation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Nitrous oxide sedation is the safest form of dental sedation available. It is used on many different patients, including those who have medical conditions or diagnoses that prevent them from getting other forms of sedation. The vast majority of patients who undergo nitrous oxide sedation experience no negative reactions, but there are a few potential side effects that can occur. Here are some of the more common ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n