Relax with Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry in Calgary
Sedation Dentistry in Calgary – Soothing Care with Nitrous Oxide
We know that dentist visits can feel stressful or even overwhelming for many patients. That’s why Southcentre Dental in Calgary offers nitrous oxide sedation dentistry, also known as “laughing gas,” to help you feel calm and relaxed during treatment.
Sedation dentistry in Calgary is a trusted, effective, and suitable option. By using nitrous oxide, we make it easier for you to receive the care you need without fear or stress. Whether you need a simple filling, gum treatment, or a longer procedure, sedation helps you feel at ease so you can focus on achieving and maintaining a healthy smile!
Why Sedation Dentistry Matters
Dental anxiety is a physical or emotional response to the perceived threat of a dental visit, which can be triggered by the idea of a painful injection, a lengthy procedure, or general discomfort. This is distinct from dental fear, which is a reaction to an immediate threat, or a dental phobia, an overwhelming feeling of fear that can severely impact daily life. According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) and the National Library of Medicine, dental anxiety or fear affects approximately 36% of the population, with a further 12% suffering from extreme dental fear.
Avoiding dental care due to these feelings, however, can lead to worsening oral health issues over time.
According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), the use of nitrous oxide sedation is both effective and does not cause harm. This form of sedation may reduce anxiety, provide some pain relief, and help a patient sit still for treatment. It can also help a patient accept procedures they find unpleasant, such as an injection of local anesthetic.
What to Expect at Southcentre Dental
Knowing what will happen during your appointment helps reduce anxiety. At Southcentre Dental, we explain each step clearly so there are no surprises.
Step 1: Consultation
We start with a review of your health history and any medications you take. This ensures nitrous oxide is appropriate for you. We’ll also discuss your concerns so we understand how to support you.
Step 2: Preparation
When you’re ready for treatment, a small, comfortable mask is placed over your nose. You’ll begin breathing a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen, as it has a quick onset and causes little effect on your respiratory system.
Step 3: Relaxation
Within minutes, you’ll notice a light, calming effect. Many patients describe feeling floaty, warm, or simply less worried. You stay awake and aware but relaxed.
Step 4: Treatment
While you’re calm, we carry out your dental procedure, whether it’s a filling, cleaning, crown, or other treatment. For longer appointments, sedation makes it easier to sit comfortably.
Step 5: Recovery
Once your procedure is done, the nitrous oxide is turned off, and you’ll breathe oxygen for a few minutes. You will regain pretreatment responsiveness before leaving your visit. Most patients feel completely back to normal within 5–10 minutes and can resume daily activities.
Link Between Oral & Overall Health
Fear of the dentist doesn’t just affect your teeth – it affects your whole body.
- Untreated decay and gum disease: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 21% of adults aged 20-64 have one or more permanent teeth with untreated decay. Oral health problems that are neglected or untreated can cause pain and disability and are linked to other diseases.
- Infections: Dental infections can spread to the jaw or bloodstream if left untreated, creating serious health risks.
- Nutrition: Missing or painful teeth affect your ability to eat a balanced diet.
- Mental health: Anxiety about your smile can lead to stress and reduced confidence in social settings.
By making dental visits manageable, sedation dentistry supports better oral care habits and, in turn, better overall health.
How Often / Who Needs Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry isn’t just for people with extreme dental phobias. Nitrous oxide is beneficial for:
- Anxious or fearful patients who are otherwise cooperative.
- Patients with mental, physical, or medical needs.
- Those with a strong gag reflex that interferes with treatment.
- Patients for whom a deep local anesthetic cannot be achieved.
- Cooperative patients undergoing lengthy procedures.
- Prior to treatment, a patient’s medical history must be reviewed, and a physical assessment should be performed. The presence of any contraindications should be verified, and patients with significant underlying medical conditions, such as severe obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, or sickle cell disease have to consult with medical specialists before treatment.
- Informed consent will be obtained from our patients or a parent/guardian and documented in their chart. We’ll also provide you with pretreatment dietary precautions you must follow. After the procedure, the patient’s record will include the dose administered, the duration of the procedure, and the post-treatment oxygenation procedure.
How often can nitrous oxide be used?
Nitrous oxide is considered suitable for repeated use. Our dentist will guide you in choosing what’s ideal for you in regards to sedation.
At-Home Tips Between Visits
Even with sedation available, you can reduce dental stress on your own:
- Wait for Recovery: After nitrous oxide treatment, allow time for the sedative effects to wear off before resuming normal activities. Most patients feel alert and can go home shortly after the procedure, but it’s a good idea to rest for a bit.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water after your appointment to help flush out any residual effects of the nitrous oxide and stay hydrated.
- Follow Post-Appointment Instructions: Be sure to follow any specific aftercare instructions our dentist provides, especially regarding medications or additional treatments.
- Practice relaxation: Try deep breathing or meditation before appointments.
- Communicate openly: Let our dentist know about your fears. We can adjust to make you more comfortable.
- Keep a regular schedule: Visiting our clinic twice a year can keep visits shorter and less intimidating.
- Bring comfort items: Headphones or a favorite playlist can make your visit feel calmer.
- Take small steps: If you’re very anxious, start with a checkup and cleaning, then build up to treatments with sedation if needed.
These habits, combined with sedation when appropriate, make dental care more approachable.
Signs You May Need Sedation Dentistry Now
- You avoid dental visits due to fear or anxiety.
- You feel panicked just thinking about an appointment.
- You’ve skipped cleanings or treatments, leading to worsening dental issues.
- You have a sensitive gag reflex that makes dental work difficult.
- You’re planning a long or complex procedure.
- Your child struggles to stay calm during visits.
Why Choose Southcentre Dental for Sedation Dentistry in Calgary
Patients trust us because we provide:
- Trusted, closely monitored sedation customized to each patient.
- Gentle, compassionate care for both children and adults.
- Flexible options for nervous patients or those needing complex treatments.
- Clear communication so you always know what to expect.
- A trusted Calgary team focused on your comfort and long-term oral health.
Understanding Sedation at Southcentre Dental
While nitrous oxide is our most common option, sedation dentistry can sometimes involve other techniques. At Southcentre Dental, we focus on nitrous oxide because it is:
- Trusted for both children and adults.
- Fast-acting and reversible.
- Effective for mild to moderate anxiety.
Affordability & Insurance
Sedation dentistry is an investment in your comfort. Some insurance plans cover nitrous oxide sedation, particularly for children or complex procedures. At Southcentre Dental, we:
- Provide clear estimates before treatment.
- Help you check insurance coverage.
- Offer payment options if sedation is not included in your plan.
We believe every patient deserves to feel comfortable during dental care. As a CDCP that accepts patients who qualify for the plan, nitrous oxide is considered minimal sedation which is covered under the CDCP.
Enjoy Stress-Free Dental Visits at Southcentre Dental
Dental care should never feel overwhelming. At Southcentre Dental in Calgary, our sedation dentistry with nitrous oxide helps you feel at ease, stay comfortable, and get the care you need without fear. Whether you’re a nervous adult, a busy parent bringing in a child, or someone planning a complex treatment, we make dental visits easier.
Enjoy peace of mind knowing you can receive care comfortably. Call us today or click to book your appointment – let Southcentre Dental help you experience soothing dentistry!
Common Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Will I be asleep?
No. Nitrous oxide helps you relax, but you stay awake and aware. You can respond to questions and instructions during treatment.
How quickly does it wear off?
Recovery is rapid. Once the gas is turned off, breathing pure oxygen clears it within minutes.
Can children use nitrous oxide?
Yes. Most children will accept nitrous oxide therapy and are enthusiastic about the experience, sometimes reporting that it feels like they are dreaming or on a “space ride.” However, other children will not accept this type of sedation, becoming distressed by feelings of a loss of control or claustrophobia. Some children may also find the nasal mask confining and unpleasant.
Will the mask be too big for me?
The mask should be properly fitted to each patient. Before administering nitrous oxide, we ensure that the reservoir bag does not over- or under-inflate while the patient is breathing oxygen.
How long has nitrous oxide been around for?
Nitrous oxide is a colourless, odourless, or slightly sweet-smelling gas that was first used in surgical and dental anesthesia in the mid-1800s.
Call Southcentre Dental about Sedation Dentistry today!
Quick Benefits of Sedation Dentistry at Southcentre Dental
- Helps reduce dental anxiety and fear.
- Makes longer treatments more comfortable.
- Works effectively for both children and adults.
- Quick recovery so you can resume normal activities.
- Provides a calm, positive dental experience.