Have you ever heard of “laughing gas”? This is also known as nitrous oxide, which is a mild and effective form of sedation. If you’re feeling nervous or anxious about undergoing dental treatment, this may be the solution to calm your nerves. However, there are a few things you might want to know before undergoing this process. Keep reading to learn five facts about nitrous oxide ahead of your appointment!
#1: The Sedation Process Is Straightforward
Nitrous oxide is best known for being administered fairly quickly compared to other options. Unlike other types of sedation which require medication or fasting instructions beforehand, you’ll simply receive the gas via a nasal mask when it’s time to undergo your treatment. Once you’re settled in the dentist’s chair, a trained professional will adjust the knobs to begin the flow of nitrous oxide, allowing you to feel deeply relaxed during your visit.
#2: Nitrous Oxide Helps with More Than Your Nerves
While many patients receive this sedation option to help ease any dental-related anxiety, this isn’t the only benefit you can expect. Nitrous oxide can also be recommended to those who:
- Require extensive dental procedures in a single appointment
- Are bothered by the sights and sounds of the dental office
- Experience neck, head, or jaw discomfort
- Struggle with remaining still while in the treatment chair
#3: Nitrous Oxide Can Be Easily Adjusted
Other sedation options, such as oral conscious sedation, require much more planning due to their timeframe of effectiveness. On the other hand, nitrous oxide is easily adjustable, as your dentist can alter the knob accordingly throughout your treatment. Since they can stop the sedation therapy at any moment, you can be confident that you’ll be safe and sound every step of the process.
#4: The Effects Will Wear Off Quickly
Unlike oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, you won’t expect to feel groggy or lethargic once your appointment is over. After your dentist removes the nasal mask, you can quickly begin to feel normal again. This means you’ll be able to drive yourself to and from your visit!
#5: Nitrous Oxide Has Been Used for Centuries
It may surprise you to know that nitrous oxide has been used for over 200 years. An English scientist named Joseph Priestly reportedly discovered “laughing gas” back in 1793. Over the centuries, it’s been widely known as the safest and most effective form of sedation dentistry.
Now that you know more about nitrous oxide, you can feel more comfortable about undergoing the process during your dental treatment. Get in touch with your dentist if you wish to learn more today, and they’ll be more than happy to walk you through your sedation options!
About the Author
Dr. Anne Lindley earned her dental doctorate from the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. She also regularly seeks continuing education so that she can stay on top of the latest advancements in dentistry. She offers a multitude of high-quality services, including nitrous oxide sedation. If you want to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call 972-329-4200.