Sedatives have been popularly used in dentistry for patients suffering from anxiety to keep them calm and relaxed while offering suitable treatments. Dental fear and anxiety can creep in any time at any age which may make patients avoid visiting a dentist. But with sedation, these challenges can be overcome. One common type of sedation used by a Plymouth dentist is nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas.
This informative blog will explore nitrous oxide in detail and how it can keep you stress-free during dental procedures.
A comprehensive guide to nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas, is a type of short-acting sedative. This colorless, sweet-smelling gas is administered through a nosepiece. Dentists have been using this sedative for a long time since it is fast-acting and wears off quickly, thus making it an ideal sedative for short or minor dental procedures.
Nitrous oxide slows down your nervous system and induces a sense of calmness. It does not completely put you to sleep but only reduces your anxiety. It may take around 3 to 5 minutes to induce sedation.
Once administered, you may feel:
- Calm
- Relaxed
- Happy
- Giggly
- Light-headed
- Tingling in your arms and legs
- A sense of heaviness
Contraindications for nitrous oxide sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation is not meant for everyone, even though it is the most popular and commonly used form of sedation in dentistry. It is contraindicated in:
- Kids below 2 years
- Patients with:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- A stuffy nose
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Severe psychiatric conditions
Benefits of nitrous oxide sedation
Nitrous oxide is a popular dental sedative due to the following benefits:
- It is fast-acting
- Easy to administer
- You can return to your normal self quickly
- It is non-invasive and does not require any needles
- Safe and effective when given in a healthcare setting
- Affordable and easily available
Some useful FAQs
- Can you still feel pain with laughing gas?
Yes. Nitrous oxide sedation dulls your sensitivity to pain but does not eliminate it completely. Thus most dentists use nitrous oxide sedation in combination with local anesthesia.
- How long does laughing gas last?
The effect of nitrous oxide sedation lasts until your dentist turns off the gas flow. It usually takes 5 to 10 minutes for the sedative to leave your system and for you to return to normal.
Wrapping up
Dental fear and anxiety may be common, but they should not keep you away from the dental care that you deserve. Talk to your dentist and discuss your fear, which can help them offer you the option of sedation. Seeking dental care is essential for good oral health and improved overall well-being.
