- Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is a safe and effective inhaled sedative used in dentistry to reduce anxiety and pain during procedures. It is administered through a nasal mask and allows the patient to remain conscious, but in a state of calm euphoria, and is a quick-acting and fast-recovering sedation method. The process involves the patient breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, with the concentration being adjusted throughout the procedure.
How it Works
- Conscious Sedation: Nitrous oxide keeps the patient conscious, so they can respond to the dentist’s instructions, unlike general anesthesia where the patient is asleep.
- Relaxation and Anxiety Relief: It slows down the nervous system, inducing a sense of calm, euphoria, and detachment, which helps manage dental anxiety.
- Pain Reduction: It raises the pain reaction threshold and can decrease pain, especially when combined with local anesthesia.
- Increased Cooperation: It can help reduce movement, improve cooperation, and increase tolerance for longer appointments.
- Quick Onset and Recovery: The effects begin quickly, and once the gas is turned off, the patient recovers within minutes after being given pure oxygen for a few minutes to clear the system.
Who is it For?
- Anxious Patients: It is ideal for both children and adults who experience stress or anxiety about dental treatment.
- Patients with a Strong Gag Reflex: It can be effective in controlling a hyperactive gag reflex.
- Special Needs Patients: It is helpful for patients with intellectual disabilities or other special healthcare needs that make it hard to sit still.
- Patients with Low Pain Tolerance: It is useful for those who are more sensitive to pain during procedures.
Contraindications
- Individuals in their first trimester of pregnancy.
- People with respiratory illnesses or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
- Those with a B-12 deficiency.
After the Procedure
- After the dentist removes the nasal mask, the patient receives 100% oxygen for about five minutes to flush the gas from their system.
- Recovery is very quick, typically within 15 to 30 minutes.
- The patient can usually drive and go about their day after the procedure.
