A visit to the dentist can set a lot of people on edge. While there’s no reason to fear the dentist, that’s not enough to calm some people’s nerves. If you suffer from dental anxiety, you’re not alone. Van Dyke General and Implant Dentistry offers our patients nitrous oxide sedation to awake them during most procedures while relieving their apprehension.
Don’t put off necessary dental work because of your anxiety — schedule your consultation with us today and leave with a smile!
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is commonly used by dentists to help make patients comfortable during dental procedures. It is an effective sedative inhaled through a small mask to relieve the anxiety that many people experience during dental procedures. It is safe to use for both adults and children. During your consultation, Dr. Van Dyke will review your health history and work with you to determine if nitrous oxide sedation is right for you.
Have you been putting off dental work because of anxiety towards being at the dentist? Nitrous oxide can help erase those concerns and allow you to prioritize your oral health. When you think of being sedated, you might think of going to sleep. With nitrous oxide, you’ll be awake and able to respond to requests from the dentist. However, the anxiety that you may have felt regarding your dental work will quickly disappear. Nitrous oxide is administered by breathing through a small mask placed over your nose. You’ll feel the effects within minutes, which may include a tingling sensation in your arms or legs, light-headedness, and a euphoric feeling. Overall, you’ll feel calm, relaxed, and ready for your procedure to begin.
Your dentist will give you specific instructions to follow before your appointment, but we suggest to eat lighter meals before your procedure to reduce the likelihood of nausea and vomiting. You should also avoid eating heavy meals for at least 3 hours post-procedure. Undergoing a dental treatment with nitrous oxide is safe and straightforward, allowing you to go back to your usual schedule almost immediately.
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose. You will not smell it and will feel no discomfort.
Typically speaking, most people feel less anxious and happier while under the effects of nitrous oxide. You may be prone to laugh more easily and may feel tingly or sleepy. If you become light-headed or nauseous, let our staff know, and we can reduce the amount of gas to enhance your comfort.
Typically, nitrous oxide will either be mixed with oxygen or oxygen will be given to you to inhale after the procedure for up to five minutes. Oxygen helps clear the nitrous oxide gas from your lungs, off-setting the effects and reducing the possibility of a headache.
As part of the effects of eliminating residual nitrous oxide with oxygen, you’ll be alert and clear-headed, usually within 15 minutes after you stop inhaling the nitrous oxide.
Yes, nitrous oxide is safe to use for children. In fact, dentists commonly opt for nitrous oxide rather than using a heavier sedative when working on children due to its safety level.
While nitrous oxide is safe for most people, you should always provide your dentist with accurate and up-to-date health information. This way, they will make the best choice for your condition and ensure that the gas is being used safely.
You should avoid using nitrous oxide if you:
Common short-term nitrous oxide side effects can include:
Some people may also have allergic reactions to nitrous oxide. If you experience any of the following symptoms after inhaling nitrous oxide, contact a medical professional immediately.