Dentists have used nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, to help patients sit comfortably through dental procedures for almost two centuries. While many people think of it as an anesthetic used for dental fillings, it can also be used to help patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety feel at ease in the dentist’s chair. If you aren’t particularly fond of your routine dental cleanings and checkups, you might be curious about whether nitrous oxide can be used to help you have a pleasant visit with your dentist the next time you see them. Here’s how to tell if nitrous oxide sedation might be right for you.
What Makes a Dental Patient a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Nitrous oxide is a tried, proven, and trusted form of dental sedation because significantly negative reactions to it are rare and it is completely eliminated from the body within minutes after treatment. Patients can expect to be able to drive home or even back to work after the procedure. If you have dental anxiety and are not allergic to nitrous oxide and are otherwise in good health, you may be a good candidate for nitrous oxide treatments. However, there are certain medical conditions that can make nitrous oxide sedation less effective or possibly harmful.
Why Would Somebody Not Be a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Some people are not fit candidates for nitrous oxide sedation. While every case is different, laughing gas may not be a great fit for a patient if they have:
- A stuffy nose – This is a simple mechanical issue. Since nitrous oxide is administered through the nostrils, nasal congestion can inhibit how much of it the body can receive. Without a sufficient amount of nitrous oxide flowing into the body, the sedative effect will not be enough to prevent discomfort or create a sense of ease.
- Substance abuse issues – If a patient has a history of substance abuse, the sense of well-being induced by laughing gas can possibly trigger a craving that may lead to a relapse.
- Other medications – If a patient is taking medications regularly, they should disclose these to their dentist in case any of them can react with the laughing gas to create a negative effect.
- A baby on the way – Pregnant women should not use laughing gas during the first trimester.
Nitrous oxide can be an excellent way to help some people feel secure at their dental appointments. Consulting with your dentist can determine if this treatment may be a good fit for you.
About the Author
Dr. Ashley Civetti earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center School of Dentistry at Houston where she graduated with Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honors. She is proud to serve as a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Her office in Royal Palm Beach, FL offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as dental sedation. For more information on nitrous oxide treatments, contact her office online or dial (561) 771-5239.