ATTENTION VA BEACH PATIENTS:
Our new location is 837 First Colonial Road, VA Beach, VA 23451
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons patients delay or avoid oral surgery, even when they know treatment is necessary. Whether it’s a concern about pain, uncertainty about what to expect, or simply the discomfort of sitting in a surgical chair, these feelings are understandable, and they deserve a thoughtful response. Nitrous oxide sedation offers a gentle, time-tested way to help patients stay calm, comfortable, and in control throughout their procedure.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we believe every patient deserves to feel safe before, during, and after treatment. Our Virginia Beach practice, led by board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Scott R. Goodove, DDS, offers nitrous oxide as part of a comprehensive approach to oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures in Hampton Roads. Whether you are here for a straightforward extraction or a more involved procedure, we take sedation seriously, and we are here to walk you through every option.
Nitrous oxide has been used safely in dental and surgical settings for well over a century, and it remains the most widely used inhalation sedative in oral healthcare today. Delivered through a small nasal mask as a carefully balanced mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, it works quickly to produce a state of calm relaxation without putting you to sleep. Patients remain awake, responsive, and able to communicate throughout the entire procedure.
The gas reaches the brain within minutes of inhalation, gently reducing anxiety and raising your pain threshold while keeping you fully conscious. You may notice a light, warm sensation, a sense of heaviness in your limbs, or mild tingling in your hands and feet. These effects are normal and indicate the sedation is working as intended. Once the procedure is complete and the gas is turned off, pure oxygen is delivered briefly to help clear the nitrous oxide from your system, and most patients feel like themselves within minutes.
According to a peer-reviewed article published in the Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences via the National Center for Biotechnology Information, nitrous oxide is an excellent agent for providing minimal to moderate sedation in minor oral surgical procedures, with an impressive safety profile when used as a single agent in appropriate patients.
Nitrous oxide is a versatile option suitable for a wide range of patients. We typically recommend it for individuals who experience moderate dental anxiety, have a sensitive gag reflex, need multiple procedures completed in one visit, or simply prefer a more relaxed surgical experience. It is also a popular choice for patients undergoing wisdom teeth removal who want to stay comfortable without committing to deeper sedation.
While nitrous oxide works beautifully for many patients, it is not the right fit for everyone. Patients with certain respiratory conditions, those in the first trimester of pregnancy, or individuals with a history of vitamin B12 deficiency may not be ideal candidates.
During your consultation, Dr. Goodove will review your complete medical history, discuss your comfort goals, and help you determine whether nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation is the most appropriate path forward. Our surgical staff is trained to monitor patients closely throughout every procedure, and all team members are CPR certified.
Nitrous oxide offers a number of advantages that make it a preferred sedation choice for patients in Virginia Beach. Understanding these benefits can help you feel more confident going into your appointment.
These qualities make nitrous oxide a practical, patient-friendly option for procedures ranging from single-tooth extractions to dental implant surgery.
Preparing for a procedure with nitrous oxide is straightforward. In most cases, patients do not need to follow special fasting guidelines the way they would for IV sedation, though it is generally recommended to eat a light meal beforehand rather than arriving on an empty stomach. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and arriving a few minutes early helps ensure a relaxed start to your appointment. We encourage patients to review our pre-anesthesia instructions ahead of time and to bring a list of any current medications or supplements to share with our team.
Our surgical staff takes every step to create a calm, welcoming environment from the moment you arrive. Whether it’s a warm blanket, a steady hand to hold, or your favorite music playing during the procedure, we go out of our way to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Patients who have significant medical concerns or require a higher level of sedation may receive care at one of our affiliated hospital facilities, including Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center or Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we understand that oral surgery is not something most people look forward to, and we work hard every day to make that experience better for our patients. Dr. Scott R. Goodove brings dual board certifications and a deep commitment to patient-centered care to every procedure performed at our Virginia Beach oral surgery practice. As a proudly independent practice, we are accountable to our patients, not corporate mandates, and that independence shapes the level of attention you receive from your very first visit.
If you have questions about nitrous oxide or want to find out which sedation option is right for you, we are happy to help. Reach out to our team through our contact form to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more comfortable surgical experience.
Dr. Goodove brings years of specialized oral surgery expertise to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, serving as your trusted hometown oral surgeon. With operating privileges at multiple local hospitals, Dr. Goodove delivers patient-centered care backed by advanced training and a commitment to creating comfortable, anxiety-free experiences. His philosophy of accessibility and personal attention sets the foundation for the practice's reputation as "the doctor's doctor" in the community.
Dr. Zagursky is a retired Army veteran who continues to serve the community through exceptional oral surgery care. With extensive military experience and specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Zagursky brings discipline, precision, and a deep commitment to patient welfare to every procedure. His background working with diverse patient populations and dedication to the underserved makes him an invaluable part of the Goodove Oral Surgery team.
Trusted by referring dentists and families since 2008
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Friday: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
