HAPPY GAS AT AVENUE DENTAL
Happy Gas
For a lot of people, the dentist isn’t their favourite place to be — and that’s completely understandable. Happy Gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is a sedation option we offer across our Avenue Dental practices. You breathe it in through a small nasal mask, it settles in within minutes, and many patients find it helps them feel more relaxed and present through their treatment.
It won’t suit everyone, and the only way to know if it’s right for you is a consultation with your dentist to discuss the risks involved.
How it works
Happy Gas is mixed with oxygen and breathed in through the nose. The effect comes on quickly and, just as importantly, lifts quickly once the mask comes off — so for most people there’s minimal downtime and you can usually get on with your day. You stay fully awake and aware the whole time. Rather than putting you to sleep, it simply helps you feel calmer in the chair. Most patients describe a light, warm, slightly floating feeling. Despite the name, it’s far more likely to bring on a sense of calm than fits of giggles. Because everyone’s body responds a little differently, the experience varies from person to person — which is exactly why a consultation beforehand matters.
Is it right for you?
This is the part that really matters. Happy Gas is a well-established option, but like any form of sedation it carries some risks and possible side effects, and how it affects you depends on your health and medical history.
Some patients feel a little lightheaded, dizzy, or notice tingling in the fingers, arms or legs. Less commonly, some experience nausea or a headache. It also may not be suitable if you can’t breathe easily through your nose — for example with a cold or certain respiratory conditions — or if a nasal mask feels too confining.
That’s why we never treat it as a one-size-fits-all. Before anything goes ahead, your dentist will sit down with you, review your medical history, and talk through the possible risks and side effects in detail so you can make an informed decision together. If you have underlying health conditions, we may also suggest checking in with your GP or relevant healthcare professional first.
Our Sleep Dentistry Services Include
How Much Does Happy Gas Cost?
Happy Gas is a cost-effective sedation option, with costs calculated per hour as an adjunct to your dental treatment. During your consultation, your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination, discuss your needs, and provide a detailed quote for your recommended treatment plan, including Happy Gas sedation if applicable.
Book a consultation to discuss Happy Gas
If you’d like to know more about Happy Gas and whether it could make your dental visit more comfortable, get in touch with us at Avenue Dental. Our dentists across the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide can talk you through your options and assess whether it’s suitable for you. Book online or call our friendly reception team to have a chat about how we can help.
What to Expect During Happy Gas Sedation
Happy Gas keeps you fully conscious and aware of your surroundings throughout, while helping you feel calm and relaxed. Patients may experience:
- A sensation of warmth
- Lightheadedness or slight dizziness
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers, arms, or legs
Despite its name, Happy Gas is more likely to bring on a sense of calm than euphoria or laughter. Local anaesthetic may still be used during your treatment, and the Happy Gas helps make that feel more comfortable.
*Happy Gas, like any sedation, carries some risks and possible side effects that vary from person to person. This information is general only and isn’t a substitute for professional advice. Please speak with your dentist or healthcare professional about your individual health needs and whether it’s suitable for you. You can read more on our Treatment Risks page.
Flexible payment plans
At Avenue Dental on the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne, we understand that dental treatment can be difficult to fit into your budget, which is why we offer a range of different dental payment plan options.
