Some people fail to receive the benefits of modern dental treatment, or completely avoid them because of a simple yet seemingly overwhelming problem: Fear. It is not uncommon to have a little anxiety about an upcoming dental procedure, you are not alone. However, if your fears have kept you away from the dental office when you know you really should go, keep reading and you may change your mind. Conscious sedation with nitrous oxide can help you lose that anxiety, and make the whole experience so stress-free and relaxed that you may not even remember it when it’s all said and done.
Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with a slightly sweet odor. It has been used in medicine for about a century; however its outdated nickname, “laughing gas,” is undeserved. It is a safe and effective method of administering conscious sedation, which means that you’ll stay awake during the procedure. But when nitrous oxide is used in combination with a local anesthetic, you won’t feel any pain or anxiety. In fact, many patients report a feeling of well-being during this type of sedation. All bodily functions remain normal during the administration of nitrous oxide, and its effects wear off quickly afterwards, which is a plus.
As a form of conscious sedation, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask that fits comfortably over your nose. The gas is mixed with oxygen as it is being delivered, and both gases are always kept at a level that is safe for the body to function. After just a few minutes, you may start to experience a floating sensation, and possibly some tingling in the hands and feet. That is a sign that the sedation is working. Once it has been verified that you are calm and comfortable, and that the dose administered is correct, your dental procedure will be initiated.
Nitrous oxide itself is not a sole substitute for a local anesthetic; rather it is considered an anxiolytic, which means it makes anxiety disappear. For some procedures, you may still need an anesthetic injection. The difference is, you won’t mind. Yet, you will not be asleep and you will be able to speak, be aware of what’s going on, and you will remain in control during the procedure. In fact, the dose can be fine-tuned to just the level of sedation you need in order to maintain your comfort and dignity.
When the procedure is over, the flow of nitrous oxide is decreased to zero, and the oxygen may be increased. After resting in the chair for a few minutes, you will be able to sit up, and soon after you can resume normal activities, such as driving. Some have compared the experience to “having a couple of drinks,” but there is very little “hangover” effect afterwards.
Most people whose anxiety would otherwise keep them out of the dental chair can benefit from conscious sedation with nitrous oxide. Before beginning treatment, a complete medical history will be obtained, including use of both prescription and non-prescription medications. If you are pregnant, have COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) or some other pulmonary diseases, or are taking certain drugs, it may not be the right choice for you. However, if you feel that you would benefit from a more stress-free experience in the dental office, ask about nitrous oxide conscious sedation. If you discover nitrous oxide will be the best choice for you, you may be on your way to that new and improved smile you have always imagined!
