Anxiety management dentistry refers to the use of additional medications during dental treatment to supplement Novocain (the numbing medication) to relieve anxiety. Anxiety management is most commonly used for extensive procedures, for patients with dental phobia or for patients who find it difficult to sit still. Anxiety can also be managed for patients with low pain tolerance, physical or mental handicaps and strong gag reflexes. In our office we offer two ways to help manage anxiety, nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) and the use of oral medications. Before using any type of anesthetic, it is important to tell your dentist about any other medications or medical treatments you are receiving. The use of oral medications for anxiety management is endorsed by the American Dental Association and is an effective way to make many patients comfortable during their dental procedure. The oral medication is usually indicated for patients having oral surgery or other extensive dental treatment. The patient will remain conscious, but will become very relaxed, may even fall asleep. Some patients may not even remember the procedure. Patients using oral medications for anxiety are not permitted to drive following their appointment so a driver must be arranged and present in our waiting room during the appointment. Before administering anxiety management medications, your dentist will talk to you about the process and provide you with pre and post op instructions. Nitrous oxide is more commonly known as laughing gas. Administered during the dental visit with a mixture of oxygen, the gas has a calming affect that helps phobic or anxious patients. Because nitrous oxide is a mild anesthetic, patients are still conscious and can talk to their dentist during the procedure. After your treatment is completed, the nitrous is turned off and oxygen is administered for about five to ten minutes to help flush any remaining gas. The effects wear off almost immediately. Nitrous oxide rarely has any side effects, although some patients may experience minor nausea or constipation. Your dentist will provide you with pre and post procedure information.