Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as “laughing gas,” is a mild, but effective sedative that can effectively ease your dental-related anxiety. As a result, you can comfortably get the preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry you need without the stress! Of course, there are a few things you should know beforehand. Keep reading to learn what they are!
#1. The Administration Process Is Quite Simple
One of the biggest perks of nitrous oxide is that the administration process is quite simple. There isn’t any medication or special instructions (like not eating) beforehand. Instead, you’ll arrive at the office, get comfortable in the treatment chair, and the nasal piece will be placed gently over your nose. From there, the knobs will be adjusted to begin the flow of nitrous oxide. Within a few minutes, you’ll begin to feel a deep sense of relaxation kick in.
#2. Nitrous Oxide Can Help with More Than Just Nerves
While nitrous oxide is well known for its anti-anxiety benefits, it can help with much more. In fact, it’s often recommended for patients who:
- Have a disability that prevents them from staying still in the treatment chair
- Struggle with head, neck, or jaw pain
- Need extensive dental care in a single sitting
- Are on edge due to the sights and sounds of the dental office
#3. Nitrous Oxide Has Been Used for Centuries
Did you know that nitrous oxide has been in use for more than 200 years? Joseph Priestly, an English scientist, was credited with the discovery of laughing gas back in 1793. No wonder it’s widely considered to be one of the most safe and effective sedation dentistry methods!
#4. Nitrous Oxide Can Easily Be Adjusted
Unlike other sedation methods, like oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide can easily be adjusted. To do so, your dentist will adjust the knobs as needed, keeping an eye on your vitals throughout your appointment. As a result, you can have peace of mind knowing you’ll be calm and safe every step of the way.
#5. The Effects of Nitrous Oxide Dissipate Almost Instantly
Think you’ll feel lethargic and groggy at the end of your visit? Think again! The effects of nitrous oxide dissipate just as quickly as they come on. Toward the end of your appointment, your dentist will adjust the knobs to only administer oxygen. Within a minute or two, you will feel normal again. In fact, you can even drive yourself home afterward!
Now you know that nitrous oxide is one of the most tested, fast-acting, and versatile sedation dentistry options available. If you want to learn more, then get in touch with your dentist today!
About the Practice
While our team at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics goes above and beyond to help each patient feel comfortable and calm at our office, we know sometimes a little extra help is needed. That’s where sedation dentistry, like nitrous oxide, comes in. Our skilled team would be more than happy to answer any questions you have about this anxiety-relieving method beforehand, so don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call at (781) 767-7200 if you have any.