Many people develop anxiety around dental care, but if you’re overly afraid, you might avoid scheduling appointments necessary to protect and preserve your smile. Thankfully, many dentists offer various sedatives, such as nitrous oxide, to help patients successfully complete their procedures.
However, it’s important to be well-informed before proceeding with this medication. Continue reading to learn 3 things about nitrous oxide that you should know before it’s administered!
#1: It Acts Fast
If you’ve been avoiding dental sedation because you’re afraid of needles, you’re in luck! Nitrous oxide is a popular medication that’s administered through a gas mask placed over your nose while your dentist works, which is a much less invasive method. Plus, the effects kick in mere moments after you first inhale the medication, making it incredibly convenient.
Thankfully, it wears off just as quickly once your procedure is complete and the mask is removed, so most patients can feel free to resume work, school, or their other routinely scheduled activities.
#2: You Might Feel Giggly
Nitrous oxide typically induces a deep sense of relaxation, and you might notice a tingling sensation in your limbs. Some people also develop a bad case of the giggles, which is likely why this sedative is referred to as ‘laughing gas’. This euphoric sensation is likely due to how the medication interacts with your brain. It displaces the air in your lungs, depriving your brain and blood of oxygen, which releases feel-good chemicals into your system.
Not only can this help you feel calmer and more comfortable, but you might even experience a sense of euphoria until the gas mask is removed.
#3: You Might Forget Details
Many people in Warsaw assume that dental sedation is only available for complex or surgical treatments, but that’s thankfully not the case. Laughing gas is also a simple and effective way to help patients who struggle to sit still, have a strong gag reflex, or are overly anxious complete their appointment without issues.
However, this medication can cause temporary amnesia that may make it difficult to recall the specifics of your procedure after the fact. Many patients who are afraid of dental visits count this short-term memory loss to be another of the many advantages of undergoing dental sedation.
Although laughing gas is considered safe for most people, that doesn’t automatically mean it’s the right solution for your unique circumstances. You must consult your dentist to determine whether you’re a good candidate for nitrous oxide. If you’re not, don’t lose hope! A different drug might be better suited to your situation.
Meet the Author
Dr. Mike Rudolph has about 30 years of experience helping families improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education, enabling him to offer the most current treatment options. He offers a comprehensive menu of services under one roof, combining a caring approach and advanced technology to provide comfortable, accurate results. He also offers sedatives to help you feel calm the entire time. You can request an appointment on the website or call (574) 269-1787.