There are several kinds of dental anesthesia available, including nitrous oxide, IV sedation, local anesthesia, and general anesthesia. Nitrous oxide, which is more commonly referred to as laughing gas, is a form of anesthesia that is inhaled. With laughing gas, a nose mask will be applied, and nitrous oxide and oxygen will be administered. While you are still awake with laughing gas, a feeling of euphoria takes effect and significantly relaxes you. IV sedation, also known as intravenous sedation or twilight sleep, is administered and leaves the patient fully unaware of any details of their oral surgery.