Inhalation sedation (gas and air)

Inhalation sedation uses nitrous oxide and oxygen breathed through a small nosepiece. You remain conscious, and suitability is decided through an individual assessment.

Approved by Dr Rob Endicott

Last reviewed September 2026

General information, not personal medical or dental advice.

Ask Freeway about this

What it is

Inhalation sedation uses nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen, breathed through a small nosepiece. Its purpose is to reduce anxiety while you remain conscious and able to respond to the dental team; experiences vary.

It is conscious sedation, not a general anaesthetic. Recovery is usually relatively quick, but discharge, escort, driving and activity advice must come from the treating sedation team and depends on the individual and local protocol.

Who it tends to suit

It may be considered for some anxious patients and for some people with a sensitive gag reflex. The appropriate technique depends on your health, anxiety, ability to breathe through the nose, treatment and preferences.

Things to know

You need to breathe through your nose while it is in use. A trained team must assess your health, treatment needs and suitability, explain alternatives and obtain consent before providing sedation.

Things you can try

Ask whether inhalation sedation is one suitable option and how communication and pauses would work.
Mention any nasal breathing difficulties when discussing options.
Use the Freeway provider finder to see which practices near you offer it.

Sources

Ready to work on your own fear?

Freeway's free assessment adapts to your answers and helps you build a personal plan for seeing a dentist. About 10 minutes, no account needed.

Start your assessment

IV (intravenous) sedation for dental treatment
IV sedation gives sedative medicine through a cannula. You remain conscious, and suitability, monitoring and recovery are planned through an individual assessment.
How to choose between support options
Communication changes, psychological support, sedation and general anaesthetic are not a ladder you must climb — they are tools that can be combined around you.
Gagging or fear of choking
A sensitive gag reflex is a real physical response. Tell the team early so they can discuss practical adjustments and suitable care options.

If you have dental pain, swelling, an injury or bleeding, seek dental advice now — do not wait. This guide is general information and does not replace care from a dentist, doctor or mental-health professional.