Dental anxiety is a common barrier that keeps many from receiving the dental care they need. At Smiles Dental Spa, your trusted Tracy dentist, Dr. Shirley Zhao, understands the importance of comfort during dental visits. That’s why she offers nitrous oxide sedation, commonly known as laughing gas, to help patients relax and feel at ease throughout their oral surgery or routine procedures.
Your Trusted Tracy Dentist
Since 2013
Nitrous oxide, administered through a small mask over your nose, is a safe and effective sedative gas mixed with oxygen. It works quickly to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and create a pleasant, slightly sweet feeling of calmness—without putting you to sleep. The effect of nitrous oxide is immediate and wears off quickly, allowing patients to remain alert and comfortable.
Unlike deeper sedation methods, including nitrous oxide, this approach allows you to stay awake, responsive, and able to communicate with your dental office team during treatment. Its effects wear off swiftly after inhalation stops, so patients can return to normal activities, including getting fresh air, without any complications. When properly monitored, nitrous oxide is very safe, but improper use or high concentrations can increase the risk of side effects, which is why professional supervision is essential.
For patients with dental fear or stress, nitrous oxide provides a gentle, steady way to calm nerves. This helps ensure positive patient experiences and encourages regular dental care without fear.
While nitrous oxide itself is not a painkiller, it helps in reducing pain alongside local anesthesia for procedures like fillings, cleanings, or extractions. We safely control nitrous oxide concentrations and actively monitor the use of gas cylinders throughout the procedure.
The calming effects begin within minutes and disappear rapidly when inhalation stops, eliminating long recovery times. Patients rarely feel drowsy afterward, so they can enjoy fresh air immediately. The long-term effects are minimal, and the body naturally eliminates the gas.
For patients with a sensitive gag reflex, nitrous oxide makes even long or complex dental treatments easier.
Dental schools and medical centers have been using nitrous oxide for over 170 years, demonstrating its strong safety record. Nitrous oxide sedation is appropriate for adults, children, and individuals with specific medical conditions, under professional supervision. When combined with a professional scavenging system, it minimizes any exposure and increases overall safety. Patients also receive sufficient Vitamin B12 monitoring to avoid depletion during repeated procedures.
Your treatment begins with a consultation to determine if nitrous oxide sedation is right for you.
During your dental appointment:
This simple, painless process ensures maximum comfort and safety throughout your visit.
At Smiles Dental Spa, Dr. Zhao tailors nitrous oxide sedation to each patient’s needs, ensuring a relaxed, stress-free dental care experience every time. We highly recommend this option for patients seeking comfort during oral surgery or routine treatments.
Many dental conditions develop quietly, without pain or obvious warning signs. Regular exams and modern diagnostic tools help detect subtle changes, including plaque and tartar buildup, so we can act early with effective dental cleaning and care.
At Smiles Dental Spa, your trusted Tracy dentist, prevention is at the heart of everything we do. We provide thorough evaluations, clear communication, and individualized care so you understand your oral health and feel confident in your treatment plan.
Our commitment is simple: provide the highest quality dental care in Tracy, helping you maintain optimal oral health with a focus on prevention, comfort, and lasting results.
A caring, communicative approach with every visit
Advanced technology for accurate, safe diagnostics
Flexible scheduling for busy lifestyles
Expertise in both family dental care and cosmetic dentistry procedures
Convenient location with easy parking
We thrive on patient feedback! See what your neighbors in Tracy have to say about their experience, and if you have a moment, please leave us a review—we appreciate you taking the time!
Take the worry out of dental visits and enjoy comfortable care with nitrous oxide from Dr. Shirley Zhao.
Call (209) 585-1475 or conveniently book your consultation online through NexHealth. Visit us at 1431 N Tracy Blvd, Tracy, CA 95376—where expert Tracy dentist care meets compassionate sedation dentistry and quality dental care.
1431 N Tracy Blvd
Tracy, CA 95376
