Nitrous Oxide & Sedation Dentistry in Gardena, CA

At Brite Dental in Gardena, we understand that dental anxiety can prevent patients from getting the care they need. That’s why we offer safe and effective sedation options, including nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”), oral sedation, IV sedation, and deep sedation, to make dental visits comfortable and stress-free for adults and children.

What Is Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)?

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a safe sedative mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small nasal mask. It helps patients relax and feel calm during dental procedures without putting them to sleep. You remain conscious, able to hear and respond to instructions, while experiencing a soothing, stress-free dental visit. Effects wear off within minutes after the mask is removed.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry, also called sleep dentistry, is a method to help patients with dental anxiety undergo treatment comfortably. While some types of sedation create a sense of deep relaxation or partial unconsciousness, you remain safe, monitored, and responsive. Sedation dentistry allows patients to receive care without fear, pain, or heightened anxiety, making even long procedures easier to tolerate.

Types of Sedation Offered at Brite Dental

1.  Inhalation Sedation – Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)
     *  Quick-acting, safe for children and adults
     *  Provides relaxation and calm during procedures
     *  Effects wear off rapidly after treatment

2. Oral Sedation (Conscious Sedation)
     *  Pills taken before your procedure to reduce anxiety   
     *  May be combined with nitrous oxide for enhanced comfort

3. IV Sedation Dentistry
     *  Deeper sedation administered through a small needle
     *  Keeps you comfortable and relaxed for longer procedures

4.  Deep Sedation / Sleep Dentistry  
     *  Used for complex or extended dental procedures
     *  You remain responsive if necessary, unlike general anesthesia

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

• Helps patients with dental anxiety receive regular care
• Reduces fear, gag reflex, and discomfort
• Provides little or no memory of the procedure
• Allows for completion of longer or multiple treatments in fewer visits
• Supports overall oral health by making dental visits easier and more manageable

Insurance and Cost Considerations

Most dental plans do not cover sedation dentistry, except in medically necessary cases, such as oral surgery. Laughing gas and oral sedation are generally affordable out-of-pocket options, and we offer flexible financing to help you manage costs.

Schedule Your Sedation Dentistry Visit in Gardena, CA

If dental anxiety has prevented you from getting the care you need, our compassionate team at Brite Dental in Gardena can help. Call (310) 327-7777 or book online today to learn how nitrous oxide and other sedation options can make your dental visit comfortable and stress-free.