Laughing gas or nitrous oxide
Relaxation, lightness, calmness
Laughing gas, a subtle mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide (an odourless and colourless chemical compound), is increasingly used in dentistry thanks to its anxiolytic and analgesic properties. It helps patients feel reassured and relaxed during dental care, while remaining awake and conscious.
Laughing gas anaesthesia at the CHD
At the CHD, we understand that dental procedures can be stressful. That’s why we offer light anaesthesia with laughing gas to help reduce anxiety and pain during your treatments.
Discover this treatment in video
Pricing
| Upon estimate (usually included in the price of the service) |
You have the possibility to pay by invoices and stagger your payments.
Light sedation for instant calm
Laughing gas offers light, rapid, and almost instant sedation, with effects wearing off just minutes after the end of exposure.
A gentle solution for all ages
Laughing gas is a safe anaesthesia method suitable for both adults and young children who may feel anxious about dental care.
Ideal for reducing chairside anxiety
Stress and anxiety can amplify the perception of pain. Thanks to its calming and relaxing effects, laughing gas provides real comfort to patients.
Effective relaxation while staying conscious
Unlike general anaesthesia, sedation with laughing gas allows patients to remain conscious throughout the dental treatment.
Fair & transparent prices
We strive to maintain unbeatable value for money: reasonable prices, which have not changed since 2016, for quality of care that has earned us numerous awards:
Advice
Choosing the CHD (in Geneva, Lausanne, Yverdon, or Meyrin) means receiving the best dental care possible. At CHD, your oral health is our priority. That’s why, over the years, we’ve adopted increasingly advanced dental techniques tailored to your needs.
One major advantage of using laughing gas is its minimal constraints—you can usually return to your usual activities shortly afterwards.
If you feel anxious about going to the dentist, rest assured: at CHD, our team will do everything possible to ensure your comfort and well-being before, during, and after your treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to book an appointment so we can discuss them together.
Our dental clinics
Canton of Vaud
CHD Lausanne Bessières
Rue Saint-Martin 9, 1003 Lausanne
CHD Lausanne Sallaz
Route de Berne 1, 1010 Lausanne
CHD Yverdon
Av. Haldimand 105, 1400 Yverdon
Canton of Geneva
CHD Genève Eaux-Vives
Rue F. Versonnex 7, 1207 Geneva
CHD Genève Cornavin
Rue de Lausanne 65, 1202 Geneva
CHD Meyrin
Ch. de Riantbosson 19, 1217 Meyrin
Learn more about laughing gas anaesthesia
What are the effects of laughing gas?
Laughing gas is administered through inhalation and quickly enters the bloodstream. It produces both analgesic and anxiolytic effects. You’ll feel a sense of well-being (even euphoria) and deep relaxation, which greatly reduces stress and anxiety related to the dental procedure. It also relaxes your muscles and alters your perception of pain (pain is diminished).
In some cases, laughing gas may also increase heart rate—usually well tolerated—and cause tingling in the extremities (fingers, nose, lips).
Is laughing gas suitable for children?
Administered and monitored by a qualified dental professional, laughing gas is a light and safe procedure. It’s particularly suited for dental care in children (from age 5) who are afraid of visiting the dentist, offering reassurance without risk.
Can laughing gas replace local anaesthesia?
It depends on the dental procedure. Laughing gas can be used for treatments such as scaling, fissure sealing, or minor cavity treatments. However, for more invasive procedures—like tooth drilling for cavities or crowns—local anaesthesia is also required, as laughing gas alone does not numb the teeth.
Laughing gas can therefore be combined with local anaesthesia for more complex procedures such as gum grafts or wisdom tooth extractions.
When is laughing gas needed?
Several situations may justify the use of laughing gas for a dental procedure: a phobic or highly anxious patient, a child who is afraid of the dentist, or a patient with a disability who needs help staying calm and still during treatment.
How long do the effects of laughing gas last?
Laughing gas takes effect almost instantly and only lasts as long as the patient is exposed to it. Typically, the effects wear off within minutes of removing the inhalation mask.
Can you be allergic to laughing gas?
Allergic reactions to nitrous oxide (also known as dinitrogen monoxide) are extremely rare, though not impossible. To reduce the risk, your dentist will review your medical history before proceeding with any dental anaesthesia.
Is laughing gas safe for pregnant women?
Although laughing gas is generally safe in small doses during dental treatment, it is not recommended for pregnant women—particularly during the first trimester.
Can you drive after laughing gas anaesthesia?
The effects of laughing gas wear off quickly after use. However, it is recommended not to drive immediately afterward—wait a few hours before getting behind the wheel.