Understanding Dental Anxiety — And How Laughing Gas Can Help
Dental visits can be stressful for many people. For some, even the thought of sitting in the dental chair can trigger anxiety, nervousness or fear — whether it’s the sounds of the drill, fear of pain, or memories of past experiences. Dental anxiety is common across all age groups and can prevent people from getting the care they need, sometimes until pain or problems become severe.
At Margaret River Dental, we prioritise your comfort and wellbeing. One of the ways we help patients feel relaxed during treatment is by offering nitrous oxide sedation, more commonly known as laughing gas — a safe, gentle option that helps ease anxiety for both adults and children.
What Is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety isn’t just “being a bit nervous.” It’s a real emotional response that can cause:
Rapid heartbeat or sweating before appointments
Avoiding the dentist altogether
Panic during check‑ups
Strong fear of needles, drills or dental instruments
This anxiety can affect oral health over time, leading people to delay or avoid care — which can result in more complex, costly treatment down the track.
How Laughing Gas Works
Laughing gas is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose. It’s a minimal sedation technique — meaning patients remain awake, can follow instructions, and respond to the dentist, but feel calmer, more comfortable and less stressed throughout treatment.
The gas begins to work within minutes and wears off quickly once the mask is removed, allowing most people to resume normal activities shortly after their visit.
Unlike deeper forms of sedation or general anaesthesia, laughing gas has a rapid onset and recovery, with few lingering effects — meaning you aren’t left drowsy or disorientated after treatment.
Benefits of Laughing Gas for Dental Anxiety
Choosing laughing gas during dental treatment offers several advantages:
1. Reduces Fear and Stress
Laughing gas creates a calming effect, helping patients relax and feel at ease. It’s especially useful for those with mild to moderate dental anxiety who might otherwise struggle to sit through a procedure.
2. Suitable for Adults and Children
Dentists regularly use nitrous oxide in family dental practices. For children who experience dental fear or have trouble sitting still, it can make appointments far more comfortable without sedation that causes unconsciousness.
3. Helps With Gag Reflex and Sensitivity
For patients with a sensitive gag reflex or low pain threshold, laughing gas can ease discomfort and decrease negative reactions during treatment.
4. Quick Recovery Time
Once treatment is over and the gas is stopped, the calming effects wear off quickly — usually within minutes. Most patients can return to everyday activities immediately after their appointment.
Laughing Gas — A Safe Option
In Australia, nitrous oxide sedation has a long and well‑established history of safe use in dental care. According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), nitrous oxide sedation is a commonly used behavioural management technique to help anxious patients and requires appropriate training by the dentist for safe administration.
When delivered by trained dental professionals, laughing gas is highly controlled and monitored throughout the treatment session — ensuring comfort, safety and peace of mind.
Is Laughing Gas Right for You or Your Child?
If you’re someone who has postponed dental visits due to fear or uncomfortable feelings, laughing gas could be a great option to help you relax and receive the care you need.
At Margaret River Dental, we’ll talk with you about your concerns and explain all sedation options before your treatment, so you can make the choice that feels right for you.
Why Choose Margaret River Dental for Dental Sedation?
We are very fortunate to have Dr Zena Ibrahim working for us. Zena has a special interest in working with neurodiverse patients, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD, and is highly skilled in supporting patients who experience dental anxiety or dental phobia.
Zena also has a natural ability to connect with children. Her calm, patient manner helps young patients feel comfortable and supported, allowing treatment to be completed with confidence and care.
Zena is also trained in the use of Laughing Gas.
Our experienced dentists and friendly team prioritise your comfort and safety. We carefully assess your needs and provide personalised dental sedation options, including nitrous oxide, to ensure your visit is calm and stress-free.
Take the First Step Toward Comfortable Dental Care
You don’t have to dread the dentist. With gentle sedation options like laughing gas and a supportive dental team by your side, even anxious patients can enjoy a calm, positive dental experience.
📞 Contact Margaret River Dental today to learn more about laughing gas sedation and how it can ease dental anxiety for you or your child.