PATIENT INFORMATION

Nitrous Oxide & Sedation Dentistry

Dr. Butterman uses Nitrous Oxide for patients who would like to be more at ease during dental treatment. Otherwise known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe. During treatment, patients are able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. Some patients may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment. You may want to ask Dr. Butterman for a "5 minute trial" to see how you feel with this type of sedation method.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

  • The depth of sedation can be increased or decreased at any time.
  • There is no after effect such as a "hangover".
  • Inhalation sedation is safe (you may need to avoid sedation if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing).
  • Inhalation sedation is effective in minimizing gagging.
  • It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

For our more anxious patients, Dr. Butterman uses Oral Sedation to reach a deeper level of relaxation. Dr. Butterman received his Dental Conscious Oral Sedation training from Docs Education, and he is certified by the Colorado Board of Dental Examiners to perform oral sedation in his office.  While under sedation, patients are awake and responsive; however, patients are extremely relaxed and have little sense of time or of the procedures performed. 

There are many advantages to using Sedation Dentistry

  • Unlike with IV Sedation, an injection is not necessary to achieve oral Dental sedation.  This eliminates a lot of fear for our needle-phobic patients.
  • Dental Sedation enables us to perform more dentistry in one visit, saving our patients the time and anxiety that comes with multiple appointments (please note that you will need a driver to take you to and bring you home from your sedation appointment). 
  • Oral sedation is safe and works quickly.
  • Oral sedation is effective in minimizing gagging.
  • Most patients remember little or nothing about their dental treatment.