Nitrous oxide is a slightly sweet-smelling substance also called laughing gas. Combined with oxygen, nitrous oxide effectively treats pain, reduces anxiety and acts as a mild sedative. It was first administered in dental anesthesia back in the 19th century. Inhaled through a little mask put over the nose, this gas works fast decreasing discomfort and giving a calm, pleasurable feeling in just a few minutes.

It doesn’t put patients to sleep, so they can hear and follow the instructions given by a dentist throughout the procedure. The effects that the laughing gas has on the human body wear off soon after taking off the mask so a steady stream is required to maintain anesthesia. It usually doesn’t provoke any adverse reactions and is considered a safe sedation method for dental therapy.