For some, even a simple dental cleaning could induce anxiety. Patients with a strong fear of the dentist often find it difficult to walk through the door for their appointment.
However, they may overcome their fear through the use of sedation dentistry. In this short guide, you can learn everything you need to know about one of the most common types of sedative used by dentists: laughing gas.
How Does Laughing Gas Work?
Laughing gas (or nitrous oxide) is inhaled through a special mask covering the nose. Once the gas is in your system, it affects how oxygen reaches your brain, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation.
Some patients may even become slightly giggly (especially children), which is why we commonly refer to this sedative as laughing gas.
It’s also a mild sedative that leaves the body quickly. The mask will stay on your nose throughout the entire appointment to ensure it doesn’t lose potency at any stage. Once the procedure is done, your Cookeville sedation dentist switches from the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture to just oxygen, which will help you flush out any traces of the sedative.
You won’t be feeling the effects of the gas by the time you’re ready to leave. Most patients can even drive themselves home without any trouble.
How Safe Is Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas is generally considered safe for both adults and children. Since it’s a mild sedative with temporary effects, there are no known long-term side effects of using it in a dental setting.
That being said, there are some potential side effects to consider, such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Lightheadedness, etc.
These side effects usually appear as soon as the nitrous oxide enters your system. Should this happen, the dentist will quickly switch tanks to help you expel the gas, which will also remove any discomfort. You may feel slightly woozy for a while after, but you’ll be back to normal in just a few hours.
Is Laughing Gas Right for Me?
Laughing gas is generally not recommended if you:
- Are pregnant
- Have a known allergy or sensitivity to it.
- Have a medical condition that affects your lung capacity?
Before giving you laughing gas or any other sedation, your dentist will talk to you about your options and carefully review your dental and medical history. This assessment will help them determine if you’re a good candidate for laughing gas or if you need an alternative sedative to help you get through your procedure.
Find Out If Laughing Gas Is Right for You
If you’re interested in laughing gas for yourself or even your child, Dr. Taylor Enochs Engler can help present your options and let you know if laughing gas is the appropriate solution.
Request a visit to Dogwood Family Dental online and stop by to learn more.
For more information, call us at (931) 528-6536.
