How Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Work at Highlands Periodontics?

At Highlands Periodontics, nitrous oxide is delivered through a soft nasal mask. As you breathe in the gentle mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen, it begins working within minutes. You’ll start to feel light, calm, and slightly euphoric—many patients describe it as a warm or floaty sensation.

Our trained clinical team monitors you throughout the entire procedure to ensure your comfort and safety. Once your treatment is complete, the nitrous oxide is turned off, and you continue to breathe pure oxygen for a few minutes. The effects wear off quickly, allowing you to return to your day without lingering drowsiness or the need for a driver.

What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like at the Dentist?

Most patients describe the experience as calming and peaceful. You remain fully awake and aware of your surroundings, but the typical worries or tension that come with a dental appointment begin to fade. You may feel:

• A sense of lightness or floating
• Tingling in the arms or legs
• A gentle sense of warmth or happiness
• Slight euphoria, similar to the feeling just before sleep

Best of all, these sensations stop within minutes after the gas is turned off, making it one of the most manageable forms of sedation dentistry available.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for Dental Procedures? 

Yes. Nitrous oxide is one of the safest forms of dental sedation used in modern dentistry. It has been trusted for decades and is endorsed by organizations such as the American Dental Association (ADA). At Highlands Periodontics, our doctors are fully trained and licensed to administer nitrous oxide with close monitoring and precision.

It is non-invasive, requires no injections or IVs, and leaves no lasting effects after your appointment. For patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety, it offers a dependable way to stay calm without sedation-related complications or recovery time.

Do You Offer Nitrous Oxide for Anxious Patients?

Absolutely. Anxiety-free dentistry is one of the pillars of our patient experience. We understand that periodontal procedures can be intimidating, and our goal is to help you feel at ease every step of the way.

If you’ve avoided getting treatment due to nerves or had a bad experience in the past, dental nitrous oxide could make a real difference in your care. It’s ideal for patients who want to remain awake but relaxed, and can be used alongside local anesthetics for maximum comfort during treatments like dental implant placement, soft tissue grafting, or deep periodontal cleaning.

How Long Does Nitrous Oxide Last After My Appointment?

One of the greatest benefits of nitrous oxide is how quickly it wears off. After we stop the gas and provide a few minutes of oxygen, the effects typically disappear within 5 to 10 minutes. Most patients feel completely back to normal before they even leave the chair.

Because the sedation is so short-acting, you’re usually able to drive yourself home and resume your normal activities right away—something that’s not possible with oral or IV sedation.

What’s the Difference Between Nitrous Oxide and IV Sedation?

Both options are designed to help you relax, but they differ significantly in strength and application:

• Nitrous Oxide is inhaled, starts working quickly, and wears off within minutes. You stay fully awake and aware, but feel calm and unconcerned.
• IV Sedation is administered through a vein and produces deeper sedation, often causing partial or total memory loss of the procedure. It requires more recovery time and typically a ride home.

At Highlands Periodontics, we focus on nitrous oxide for patients who want a safe, fast, and convenient solution to manage anxiety without full sedation.

How Should I Prepare for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?

There’s very little you need to do to get ready for your appointment. Still, we recommend:

• Avoiding heavy meals just before your procedure
• Wearing comfortable clothing to help you feel at ease
• Informing us about medications or respiratory conditions that could affect your sedation
• Arriving with questions or concerns, our team is happy to explain everything in advance

You’ll remain conscious throughout the entire visit, and we’ll be by your side to ensure your comfort and confidence from start to finish.

Can Pregnant Women Use Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide may not be recommended for patients who are in their first trimester of pregnancy. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant, it’s important to let us know before your visit.

We’ll work closely with you to determine the safest options for your care. In many cases, alternative approaches to comfort management can be arranged to ensure your safety and well-being.

How Much Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Cost in Kingsport, TN?

The cost of nitrous oxide sedation depends on the length and type of your procedure. It’s generally more affordable than oral or IV sedation and is sometimes covered by dental insurance when medically necessary.

Our team is happy to provide an estimate during your consultation and discuss flexible payment options. We believe everyone deserves stress-free care, and we’ll do our best to make sure cost doesn’t stand in the way.

Why Choose Highlands Periodontics for Sedation Dentistry in Kingsport?

At Highlands Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we go beyond basic dental care. Our periodontists, Dr. Stephanie Till and Dr. Adam Jenkins, bring advanced surgical training and a deep commitment to patient comfort to every visit. We’ve helped countless patients overcome dental anxiety with our safe, effective sedation options and welcoming, judgment-free environment.

• Board-certified periodontists with advanced sedation knowledge
• Calming office environment designed to reduce anxiety
• Personalized treatment plans that put your comfort first
• Convenient Kingsport location, easily accessible from Colonial Heights and surrounding areas

From your first call to your final follow-up, we’re here to support your health—and your peace of mind.