Nitrous oxide is a gas made up of nitrogen and oxygen. It is inhaled along with oxygen through a nasal mask. Depending upon the procedure, nitrous oxide can be used alone or along with local anesthesia. It DOES NOT put the patient to sleep, it is fast acting and "the way you came into the office" is the way you leave. Nitrous oxide has the effect of raising the pain threshold and making time appear to pass quickly. Young children and children with anxiety, can benefit greatly from its use.