Are patients who have quarterly periodontal cleanings allowed nitrous oxide to decrease pain during the 45 minute hygienist procedure?

Absolutely: It is becoming more common these days to make our services "more comfortable" for our patients. Some doctors do perform procedures under nitrous oxide, particularly for patients who are anxious about the procedure. If your dentist uses nitrous in his practice, there is no reason that his/her hygienist cannot perform your cleanings "under the influence"!

Nitrous Oxide: Any patient can receive nitrous oxide\oxygen analgesia for any dental procedure. However, each state has different state board requirements as to who may administer and monitor the patient during the administration. In some states in can only be a licensed doctor while others may allow auxiliary personal such as a dental hygienist to monitor it with specialized training and certification.

Why not ?: Unless you have a medical reason as to why you can't inhale nitrous oxide and oxygen, I do not see any contraindications.

Yes. Most patients: Can have nitrous oxide/oxygen for help with any dental procedure w the exception of pregnant females in first two trimesters, recent scuba divers (within 24 hours) and some other medical conditions.