Nitrous oxide is a chemical compound made of oxygen and nitrogen. Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide has been used for decades as an effective sedative for many medical procedures. The gas is administered through a face mask and takes effect in just a few seconds, inducing a “twilight” state in which you’ll remain conscious, but sedated, pain-free, and calm.
Nitrous oxide is a perfectly safe sedation option for anyone struggling with dental anxiety. In many cases, patients are able to keep calm during procedures, and the gas is not needed. However, if you have had a history of severe fear and involuntary movement during dental examinations or treatment, you should consider nitrous oxide. Using sedation is not just to make you feel comfortable; it’s also to improve your safety and make treatment more efficient.
Nitrous oxide is delivered through a nasal hood. The flow of gas is precisely controlled to ensure you receive a safe and effective dosage. A flow meter helps the dentist monitor the level of gas and maintain patient safety.
Nitrous oxide works by dulling the senses, including those of touch, pain, and hearing. This makes it highly effective in managing both pain and anxiety during dental treatments. Should I Expect Any Changes in My Body After Nitrous Oxide Is Administered? Upon inhalation, you may experience paresthesia—a tingling in your extremities—as the initial effect, followed by sensations of warmth and mild euphoria. Some patients feel as though they are floating or enter a dreamlike state where they become heavy and less aware of their surroundings.
Yes, one of the advantages of nitrous oxide is the ability to resume normal activities promptly. After the gas is turned off, you simply take a few deep breaths to clear the gas from your system and should be able to drive home safely. If you do happen to feel lightheaded, we recommend arranging a ride to ensure your safety and that of others.
City Dental of Boca is your home for comfortable and effective dental care. Give our team a call today to get to know our sedation options!
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Dr. Pirzada's dental career started at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, with an accelerated dual undergraduate and dental program. He then pursued further training with an oral surgery internship at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, focusing on complex odontogenic infections and dental surgeries. His post-graduate education continued with an oral surgery fellowship at Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, New York.
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