Do you have mild to moderate dental anxiety that makes it too difficult to visit your dentist, even for routine check-ups? Do you have a sensitive gag reflex that causes problems during dental procedures? Are you tired of avoiding appointments or struggling to relax when you’re there? You may be a good candidate for nitrous oxide sedation.
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide has earned a reliable reputation for helping patients safely during dental procedures for decades. Best of all, nearly everyone can benefit from it, even children. Here’s what you need to know about sedation dentistry!
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling, colorless gas that is mixed with oxygen and delivered to the body via a comfortable mask that gently covers the nose during any kind of dental procedure. Simply breathe it in through your nose, and your body will feel calm and relaxed.
When your procedure is over, your dentist will turn off the nitrous oxide, and you will then breathe pure oxygen for five minutes. This allows any remaining laughing gas to leave your system, leaving you feeling alert and refreshed. There should be no lingering side-effects, and you can then resume your daily activities, including driving or returning to work or school.
Who Shouldn’t Use Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide has earned a reputation for being extremely safe and reliable for most people. However, there are a few exceptions where it is very dangerous and should not be used. These include:
- Age: Though it is safe for all ages, it is only recommended for young children and those of an extremely advanced age if truly needed.
- Allergies: If you have any known allergies to nitrous oxide, do not use it.
- Medications: If you are taking any medications including over-the-counter vitamins and supplements or prescription drugs, please notify your dentist, as some cannot be mixed with sedation.
- Pregnancy: Nitrous oxide cannot be used during the first trimester of pregnancy but can be used after the second trimester; other methods of sedation should not be used at all during your entire pregnancy.
- Respiratory illness: Respiratory illnesses can make it difficult for the nitrous oxide to work properly if you are experiencing sinus congestion. Thus, it is best to wait until you feel better to use it.
Remember, while nitrous oxide sedation is a very safe, effective way to manage mild to moderate anxiety at your dental appointment, it is extremely important to notify your dentist if you fit into any of the above categories prior to your appointment.
If you have any questions or concerns about nitrous oxide, please contact your dentist for more information.
About Our Practice
At Alpharetta Modern Dentistry, we know that seeing the dentist can be stressful and overwhelming for some patients, but that should never get in the way of your oral health care. That’s why we’re proud to offer nitrous oxide sedation for treatment in our office.
If you suffer from dental anxiety and would like to learn more about this reliable, safe option, please contact us prior to your appointment for more details by calling us at 470-282-5157.