Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, has been used to help dental patients sit calmly and comfortably during their appointments for almost two hundred years. During that time, it has been found to be overwhelmingly safe and free from long-lasting side effects, which makes it a great option for almost everyone who has trouble remaining calm or still in the dental chair or who is receiving an especially long or intensive procedure. Here’s a brief guide to how nitrous oxide works and how it has helped many people enjoy healthy smiles.
Nitrous Oxide Does Not Make You Hallucinate or Behave in an Uncharacteristic Manner
Many scenes of nitrous oxide treatment on television and in movies depict it as causing patients to laugh hysterically, see or hear things that are not there, or reveal sensitive or embarrassing information. While these portrayals can be quite funny and lead to entertaining hijinks later in the story, they are not true to life. Though nitrous oxide can induce a sense of calm and wellbeing while raising the patient’s pain threshold, it will not make them hallucinate or do things they would not do otherwise.
Nitrous Oxide Is Eliminated from the Body in Minutes
Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and fed to the patient’s nose through a hose, resulting in a sense of calmness and relaxation soon after the treatment begins. After the patient stops receiving the gas, it will be eliminated from their body within minutes. They may experience temporary or mild dizziness or queasiness, but this should go away quickly, and the patient can expect to be able to drive home or back to work or school after their treatment. This makes it a great sedation option for patients with busy schedules.
Nitrous Oxide Is Not for Everyone
While nitrous oxide is incredibly effective and safe for most people, it is not suitable for every patient. A few factors that can complicate this treatment include:
- Nasal congestion: A stuffy nose can prevent the patient from receiving enough of the gas to achieve its intended effects.
- Pregnancy: Nitrous oxide may be passed to an unborn child through the placenta.
- Sleep apnea: Nitrous oxide may worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
Nitrous oxide has allowed countless patients to enjoy pleasant and comfortable dental care. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best sedation option for you.
About the Practice
Palm Dentistry offers outstanding oral healthcare to the community of Mission Viejo. Led by Dr. Sienna Palmer, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys effective treatments with the utmost courtesy and compassion. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as sedation treatments like nitrous oxide. To learn more about dental sedation, contact the office online or dial (949) 365-0951.