Nitrous Oxide Sedation

The very thought of undertaking a dental visit can arouse feelings of anxiety and nervousness in many people, and it is not something unfamiliar. To help patients relax and overcome their dental fear, the dentists offer various sedation techniques, including nitrous oxide.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

 Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a safe and trusted conscious sedative that has been used in dentistry for many years. This sedative will not make the patient completely unconscious but helps them to stay calm and composed when the dentist is performing the procedure. The patient will be conscious and respond to the queries and directions of the dentist. It is given to the patient by placing a small mask over the nose, and the patient has to breathe in the nitrous oxide, which is mixed with oxygen. The mask will first release oxygen, and then gradually, the dosage of nitrous oxide is given. The patient will begin to feel the effects of sedation almost immediately. The doctor will monitor you throughout your treatment to ensure you are safe and comfortable. The nose mask will be removed on completion of your treatment, and the effects of the sedation will come off in a matter of few minutes. This allows you to drive back home after your appointment safely. Call us to learn more.

Who Can Be Given Nitrous Oxide Sedation?

Though nitrous oxide is completely safe, there are still some possible side effects. Nitrous oxide can cause nausea or headaches in a few patients. It is an excellent idea to avoiding eating for a couple of hours before your procedure to prevent nausea. During the process, if you begin to feel nausea, dizziness, or any other uneasy feelings, convey it to the dentist immediately so that they will be able to adjust the gas to a comfortable level quickly. Despite everything, the harmful side effects of nitrous oxide sedation are not severe.

Children can safely be given nitrous oxide for their dental treatments. But it must not be given for pregnant women or people who suffer from a condition called emphysema.

What Are The Benefits of Using Nitrous Oxide?

The many advantages of using nitrous oxide are as follows:

• The sedation levels can be adjusted according to the needs of a patient.
• There is no after effect of the gas.
• The inhalation of nitrous oxide is completely safe with no side effects on your heart or lungs.
• It is very effective in minimizing gagging.
• The effects of nitrous oxide could start immediately after its inhalation. In a matter of a few minutes, its relaxation and pain-killing properties begin to reflect.

Call us at (303) 494-0101 or schedule an online appointment to learn more about our dental services. You may also visit Weissman Family Dental at 2551 31st St, Boulder, CO 80301. We'll be happy to guide you further.