Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. “Laughing gas” is a mild sedative. By inhaling a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen you can achieve a pleasant, tingling sensation. Patients often listen to relaxing music with this method to help keep their mind and body relaxed further. The inhaling technique for administrating nitrous oxide makes it an ideal dental sedation option for children and people who fear needles.