Nitrous Oxide

Cariboo Dental Clinic in Williams Lake uses Nitrous Oxide

At Cariboo Dental Clinic we understand that many of our patients experience anxiety with the mere thought of having to go to the dentist. We want you to feel relaxed. We provide gentle dental care, and aim to keep you comfortable during every visit.


If your treatment plan requires a surgical procedure or even if you get nervous just hearing our dental instruments, we offer nitrous oxide sedation for your comfort.


Nitrous oxide is a non-irritating, colourless gas with a sweet odour. Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe to inhale, and patients receive 50 to 70 percent oxygen with no less than 30 percent nitrous oxide to achieve sedation.


You will be able to breathe on your own and remain in control of all bodily functions.


It is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep and experience mild amnesia following their appointment. You may not remember all the details of what happened during your dental appointment.

Advantages of Using Nitrous Oxide

  • Sedation depth can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation
  • There is no “hangover” effect
  • Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
  • Inhalation sedation minimizes gagging during dental procedures
  • Nitrous oxide reaches the brain within 20 seconds. Within 2 to 3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Who Should Not Use Nitrous Oxide

Patients who have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should not use nitrous oxide. Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.), a cold or other difficulties with breathing.


You may want to ask your dentist for a “5-minute trial” to see how you respond to type of sedation method before proceeding with the full dosage.


Call us today to book your dental appointment. If you have a medical condition and are concerned about nitrous oxide sedation, please mention it when booking your appointment.

Book an Appointment for Nitrous Oxide
Group 4

“Cariboo Dental is a warm inviting place to get all your dental procedures done. The receptionists are very friendly and kind. My hygienists and dentist do excellent work they make you feel at ease. I highly recommend Cariboo Dental!"

Heidi Rattay

Group 4

“Great experience today, cleaning and check up. Covid safety procedures were clear and the staff helpful. My dental hygienist was super friendly and kind and provided me with lots of tips to help me maintain my dental health."

Kassia James

Group 4

“I had the best experience ever with the Dentist and staff at the Cariboo Dental Clinic. After spending a week in absolute pain, I was ready to pull out my own tooth. Not only was I able to keep my teeth, they repaired two others at the same time and fit me in for a cleaning as well. I felt no pain during the procedures and was treated amazingly by all staff.
My hats off to all the staff at Cariboo Dental Clinic." 

Jerry Strang

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