Nitrous Oxide is a gas that can be used to make patients feel more comfortable while they undergo a variety of dental procedures. It is used in most dental offices to help patients relax during procedures that require a moderate level of sedation, such as fillings and oral surgery.
How does this work?
The nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen to create a blend that is inhaled. This mix is called laughing gas. Once inhaled, the nitrous oxide will help relax and make you feel less anxious, but you will still be able to hear and respond to any instructions your dentist needs you to hear while you are under its influence. The effects of the nitrous oxide usually wear off within 20 to 30 minutes after it is stopped.
Nitrous oxide can be stopped and restarted as needed throughout your procedure. At the end of your appointment, you can go home and resume your usual activities immediately.
Why do we use nitrous oxide?
At Dicus Family Dentistry, we use nitrous oxide because it is one of the safest sedative agents available. Nitrous oxide acts as a sedative, not an anesthetic; you will still have sensation in your mouth while you breathe the gas. This means that you will be able to feel what is going on in your body, unlike under general anesthesia, where you won't feel anything.
Nitrous oxide also has almost no side effects, or after effects, so you will still be feeling pretty normal after your appointment ends. The only side effect we sometimes see here is nausea in patients who had recently eaten food or drank something hot or cold before their appointment began.
How Can this Sedative Help?
Our dentist may recommend nitrous oxide sedation if you:
- Are afraid of visiting the dental office.
- Got a sensitive gag reflex
- Have dental anxiety due to dental instruments or smell in the dental office.
- Need numerous dental treatments at once
What are the benefits of using Nitrous Oxide?
The benefits of using nitrous oxide include:
- The gas has to be inhaled and not administered
- The sedative shows instant effects.
- Reduces gag reflex for a while
- No long-lasting effects
Please reach out to Dicus Family Dentistry at 15 McCabe Drive, #201, Reno, NV 89511, to have a consultation with our dentist. Call us at (775) 828-7246 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.
