Your palms start to sweat. Your heart rate picks up. You’re on your way to the dentist’s office to have some work done. But this time, your dentist recommends having nitrous oxide or laughing gas. You quickly agree—anything to help make these appointments less stressful and painful. However, there are some things you should know before you breathe it in deeply. Read on to learn what you can expect from nitrous oxide and how it works.
Nitrous Oxide Does Not Put You to Sleep.
You may not actually laugh while inhaling “laughing gas,” but you should feel calmer, more content while taking nitrous oxide. Although you’ll be conscious and responsive, you’ll likely find that you’re not bothered by what’s going on around you. In addition, it can serve as an extra anesthetic, ensuring your comfort throughout your time in the chair.
Getting Nitrous Oxide Is Painless.
Some dental practices offer IV sedation for their patients. Although stronger, this form of sedation, as the name suggests, requires putting in an IV—meaning needles. If you are experiencing dental anxiety, the idea of being poked probably doesn’t help you feel any better. Fortunately, nitrous oxide is simply inhaled through a nasal mask. This noninvasive sedation method can help you actually look forward to your dental appointments.
The Effects of Nitrous Oxide Kick In and Wear Off Quickly.
Although there are other sedation options that are more powerful than nitrous oxide, this gas has its perks. Within minutes of having the nasal mask in place and breathing in, you should feel a light, warm sensation, easing your anxiety and helping you relax.
With IV or oral conscious sedation, you have to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the appointment because the effects can last for several hours afterward. The effects of nitrous oxide, on the other hand, take only a few minutes to wear off. This allows you to drive yourself and get back to your normal activities right away.
Nitrous Oxide Is Gentle and Safe.
Compared to other forms of sedation, nitrous oxide is the mildest option available. As such, it can be used in a wide array of situations. Whether you’re simply getting a checkup and cleaning or getting a cavity filled, it can help you sit back and relax without worries. It’s even safe and gentle enough to use on children!
In the end, you’ll likely find that nitrous oxide is a great match for alleviating your anxiety. With this option, your time in the dental chair doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or stressful. Armed with this information, you can confidently go into your appointment, knowing that you’ll feel completely at ease from start to finish.
About the Author
Dr. Jack Markusen has been practicing dentistry in Horry County for more than 40 years now. In addition to the American Dental Association, he is an active member of Academy of General Dentistry, Pierre Fauchard Academy, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the South Carolina Dental Association. In his practice, he offers nitrous oxide sedation for patients who struggle with dental anxiety. Would you like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Markusen? Contact his office through the website or call 843-916-0990.