It is estimated that between 9 and 15% of American adults avoid going to the dentist because of fear. Nitrous oxide, often referred to as laughing gas, is used by dentists to help patients relax during treatment. It is a safe sedative that is combined with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask during treatment. Once treatment is over the nitrous oxide is quickly replaced with oxygen so all traces of the gas are gone. This is a great option to relax and be able to drive yourself to and from the appointment without needing a ride.