Breathe Easy with These 4 Facts About Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide remains one of the most popular forms of dental sedation. Mild in its approach, many patients can begin to feel at ease as soon as they start to inhale the colorless and odorless gas. If you struggle to visit the dentist’s office because of a traumatic experience elsewhere or because you have a strong gag reflex, etc., ask about receiving nitrous oxide at your next visit. But before you do, learn four facts about this sedative that can help you understand if it might be right for you.

Administering Nitrous Oxide is Easy

Receiving nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” as it is also known, is a simple and quick procedure. All it requires is that you wear a nasal mask or facemask and begin to inhale. The dentist will turn on the gaseous mixture so that it moves through the tubing and into your nostrils. In just seconds, you’ll begin to feel light-headed and more relaxed in the treatment chair. The best part is that the effects wear off almost immediately after the mask is removed.

Nitrous Oxide Has Many Benefits

Dentists opt for nitrous oxide for many reasons, such as:

• It can be easily monitored and altered, only by a qualified professional
• Its effects come on quickly and dissipate just as fast
• It is safe to use and does not negatively impact other areas of your body (i.e., brain, heart, liver, etc.)
• It is safe and commonly used in children’s dentistry and family dentistry
• It requires no needles!

It’s Not the Best Solution for Everyone

Although it might seem as if nitrous oxide is a good option for all patients, some should avoid it. For example, if you have an allergy to the medication used, it’s best not to move forward. Also, if you are pregnant, you should not receive nitrous oxide for a procedure, but instead talk to your dentist about when it is safe to undergo treatment at a later time.

Those with respiratory illness, substance abuse problems, mental health issues, and more can suffer long-term side effects.

Nitrous Oxide Does Not Fully Sedate You

When receiving nitrous oxide, remember that you will not be fully sedated. Instead, you will be calm and relaxed enough to be comfortable in the treatment chair. You may doze off, but you can be easily awoken to respond to any dental cues that are required.

Don’t discount the advantages of nitrous oxide. By receiving it during your next appointment, you can experience dentistry in a new and enjoyable way.

About the Practice
A New Smile consists of a general dentist, an endodontist, a periodontist, and an oral surgeon. Bringing years of comprehensive and trustworthy experience, we help patients experience a more comfortable, all-encompassing style of dentistry under one roof. When sedation is necessary, we can provide nitrous oxide, a mild solution that makes administering treatment more efficient. If you have questions about nitrous oxide, visit our website or call (818) 897-5771 to schedule an appointment.