Nitrous Oxide: Dentists Aren’t Laughing

Two out of three dentists offer nitrous oxide, this survey found, but many docs don’t prefer it – 18% never use it and another 13% rarely do.

“I offered nitrous oxide for twenty years, but there was little demand,” said one dentist. “I’m glad I don’t offer it anymore.”

“I became a re-born believer in nitrous when I had dentistry done in my own mouth,” offered another. “Whatever we can do to relieve our patients’ anxiety also reduces our own and increases our bottom line!”

Specialists and rural dentists are significantly more likely than general dentists to offer nitrous oxide.

Here are some dentist comments on the topic:

• “People don’t ask for it as much as they did 20 years ago. Maybe I’m just getting really good at this Dentistry thing!” (Illinois dentist)
• “It’s nice for children and really nervous patients. I would have an adult pay for it, but I would give it to kids for my sanity.” (General dentist)
• “I have found that a modern, comfortable office with soothing music, comfortable environment, a great staff, and a caring dentist beats out the calming effects of nitrous oxide any day! I rarely ever have the need to use nitrous oxide for our patients (maybe once every 6 months).” (Ohio prosthodontist)
• “I charge for using nitrous. This eliminates those that don’t really need it. It is expensive to use (cost of gas and staff that must be with the patient at all times).” (Washington dentist)
• “The greatest part of dentistry is the interaction with patients and their families. Nitrous oxide and the latest craze “sleep dentistry” limit those interactions.” (Massachusetts dentist)
• “I think it’s nuts to use nitrous…the dentist and staff are breathing it, it takes tons of time to set up, it’s expensive, the equipment is WAY expensive, and some people get sick or very weird on it.” (Washington dentist)

Read more: Dentists Who Offer Nitrous Oxide