You’ve probably seen nitrous oxide portrayed comedically many times on sitcoms or cartoons, but these representations are not always true to life. While nitrous oxide is also known as laughing gas, it does not make patients giggle hysterically, nor does it make them pass out, reveal guarded secrets, or behave foolishly. Here’s a brief guide to the benefits of using nitrous oxide to help dental patients sit more comfortably and why it is perfectly safe for virtually everyone when administered by a qualified professional.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with a slightly sweet taste and odor, and it has been used for almost two centuries to help dental and medical patients remain comfortable, relaxed, and calm during procedures. In dentistry, this gas is mixed with oxygen and administered to the patient’s nose through a mask attached to a hose. Within minutes of beginning to inhale nitrous oxide, they should begin feeling calm and relaxed while still able to respond to questions and move their limbs. These effects dissipate very quickly after the mask is removed.
Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?
Nitrous oxide is an incredibly popular dental sedation treatment because it has been found to be effective and free of long-term side effects after many decades of thorough study. The gas is eliminated from the body within minutes after treatment ends, and the most severe common side effect is temporary dizziness that disappears quickly. After sitting at the dental office for a few minutes after receiving nitrous oxide, patients can expect to be perfectly able to drive home or back to work or school and continue their day normally.
Who Shouldn’t Receive Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is incredibly safe for virtually any dental patient, but there are a few exceptions. People dealing with nasal congestion due to allergies or respiratory infections may not be able to receive enough of the gas to become adequately sedated, and nitrous oxide is not recommended for pregnant women.
Nitrous oxide has helped patients of all ages enjoy pleasant and comfortable dental appointments. After a brief review of your medical history, your dentist will be able to determine if laughing gas can be a suitable treatment for you.
About the Author
Dr. Nabeel Ahmed earned his dental degree from the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry and invests a considerable amount of time in continuing education courses on topics like root canals, veneers, and sedation. He is proud to play a key role in helping patients achieve better oral health through effective treatments and education. His two offices in East York offer general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as nitrous oxide treatments. If you’re wondering if nitrous oxide can help you at the dentist’s office, contact his practice online.