Happy gas is a mild inhaled sedation that helps you feel calm and settled during dental treatment. Here is how it works and who it suits.
A happy gas dentist in Geelong is a dentist who offers nitrous oxide, a mild inhaled sedation that helps you feel calm and settled while you are in the chair. You breathe a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a small nose mask. It works quickly and wears off quickly too, so most people drive themselves home afterwards.
At East Geelong Dental Practice we see plenty of locals who put off treatment because the thought of it sits heavy. Happy gas is one of the simpler ways to take the edge off. It does not put you to sleep. You stay awake and able to talk the whole time.
How a happy gas dentist in Geelong helps you relax
Nitrous oxide has been used in dentistry for a very long time. It gives a light floaty feeling and softens anxiety. Some people notice tingling in the hands or feet. Others just feel a bit warm and less bothered by what is going on around them.
You keep control the entire visit. The gas flows through a mask that sits over your nose. The dentist adjusts the level to suit you. When treatment finishes we switch you to plain oxygen for a few minutes and the effect fades fast.
Who it suits
Happy gas can help if you feel nervous before appointments, have a strong gag reflex or find it hard to sit still for longer treatment. It is also a gentle option for children who need a little help staying relaxed. If you are a very anxious patient it is worth reading our guide for the nervous patient dentist in Geelong as well.
It is not right for everyone. Certain breathing conditions, blocked sinuses on the day or early pregnancy can mean it is not suitable. Tell us about your health history and any medicines you take. Individual advice always comes from a proper exam.
Happy gas or deeper sedation
Happy gas is the lightest form of sedation. Some people need more than that for longer or more involved work. When that is the case we talk through other options. You can read more on our sedation dentist in Geelong page. Our approach to comfort across the board is set out on the sedation dentistry service page.
The right choice depends on the treatment, your health and how you feel. We will never push you toward something you do not want. Results and how people respond can vary, so we plan it with you.
What to expect on the day
There is not much to prepare. Eat something light beforehand rather than arriving on an empty or overly full stomach. When you sit down we fit the nose mask and let the gas settle in over a couple of minutes. You breathe normally through your nose and we get started once you feel comfortable.
Because it clears so quickly most people head back to their day straight after. If you have had happy gas alongside a bigger procedure we will give you clear instructions before you leave.
What it costs
Cost depends on the treatment being done and how long the appointment runs. Happy gas is an add on to the underlying dental work rather than a fixed figure on its own. We give you a written estimate after an exam so you know where you stand before anything goes ahead. Health fund rebates may apply depending on your cover. Payment plans can also be discussed.
Common questions
Will I be asleep with happy gas?
No. You stay awake and aware and can talk to us the whole time. It simply helps you feel calmer and more relaxed.
Can I drive home afterwards?
Usually yes, because nitrous oxide leaves your system within minutes once we switch you to oxygen. If it is paired with a larger procedure we will tell you beforehand.
Is happy gas safe for kids?
It can be a gentle option for anxious children when it suits them. We assess each child first and only use it where it is appropriate.
How do I know if it is right for me?
Book a check up with our dentist in Geelong and we will look at your health history and talk through your options. Call us on (03) 9111 3553 to arrange a time.
Dr Sunny M Singh
Dr Sunny M Singh is the principal dentist at East Geelong Dental Practice and has spent 17 years caring for patients in private practices around Australia. He holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Fellowship in Implantology from the University of Miami and is a certified Invisalign provider. His everyday work covers dental implants, smile makeovers, cosmetic dentistry, root canals and Invisalign. He speaks English, Hindi and Punjabi. He writes these guides to help Geelong locals make calm, clear decisions about their teeth.
