Are you anxious about an upcoming dental visit? You might have a fear that prevents you from getting the oral healthcare you need, but your dentist is here to help you out. Many practices have started to offer nitrous oxide to help their patients relax while they get the treatment they need. However, if you don’t know much about it, then here are three facts you should know.
1.) Nitrous Oxide Is Also Called Laughing Gas
Nitrous oxide may not sound all too familiar, but it also goes by the more common name of laughing gas. It’s a mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide, which your dentist adjusts according to you.
You are meant to feel calmer and more euphoric with it, but you will still be conscious. In fact, you may feel so relaxed that you doze off on your own! But you can be woken up with light nudges and can answer questions and follow simple directions.
2.) It’s Simple to Administer Nitrous Oxide
As was mentioned above, nitrous oxide is a gas, so all you need to do to feel its effects is simply breathe it in! Your dentist will put a mask over your nose and ask you to take normal breaths. You should feel it relatively quickly, but you might also notice it has a faintly sweet smell to it. Your practice might’ve put a different scent to it to make your entire treatment more enjoyable, but it’s typically odorless.
3.) Nitrous Oxide Is Commonly Used
This form of dental sedation is the mildest of all the options out there. Many adults and children get it for their treatments, like a checkup and cleaning. Better yet, it is safe and effective! Ever since it was founded in 1793, it has undergone countless studies to make sure it’s a great choice for many people. If it isn’t, your dentist will let you know beforehand as they take into account things like pregnancy and allergies, to name a few.
In the end, nitrous oxide is a great option for many patients. By talking to your provider about your worries and concerns, they can clear them up. That way, you feel confident getting it for your treatment, so you can get the care you need to benefit your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Mitchell earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. He is dedicated to helping the Dallas community get the stronger smiles they love with preventive care. Dr. Mitchell understands that you may have some reservations about the dentist, so he is proud to offer sedation dentistry to help you relax during your oral healthcare. If you want to know how he can make your visit easier, schedule an appointment or call his office at (972) 233-1311.
