Nitrous oxide treatment – relaxed and stress-free care
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, has been used since the 19th century to calm patients with anxiety and put them in a relaxed state during dental visits. This method is one of the most modern and safe ways to calm and relax patients during treatment. Dentists in the US and Great Britain currently use nitrous oxide routinely. The settings of the device that controls the nitrous oxide eliminate the possibility of an overdose.
Treatment under nitrous oxide is usually suitable for children, anxious patients, patients with a strong gag reflex, patients with a fear of hypodermic needles, and patients with physical and mental handicaps (with approval from their physician).
Comfortably sedated without side effects
The biggest advantage of nitrous oxide is that the patient stays responsive during the treatment, does not lose consciousness, and does not lose control. The nitrous oxide relaxes the patient, and its effects are described as pleasant, comfortable, and light. Swallowing and gag reflexes are weakened.
The mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is given to the patient through a mask. After taking effect, the patient feels a pleasant warmth followed by tingling in the arms and legs, almost like "being wrapped in cotton". Then the patient experiences a detachment from what is happening. However, the patient remains able to communicate. During the treatment of younger patients, parents can of course stay by their side the entire time.
The patient stays in sedated for the entire procedure and recovers very quickly thereafter. The effects wear off after only a few minutes, and the patient can then perform normal activities. If you would like to learn more about nitrous oxide sedation, we will gladly send you an informational brochure, or you can ask about it at our practice.
