Did you know that an estimated 15% to 36% of people around the globe experience anxiety around dental appointments? If you’re worried that an upcoming procedure or service will hurt, you’re not alone.
Fortunately, your dentist offers multiple types of sedatives to help you feel calm and relaxed, including nitrous oxide. If you’re unsure what to expect from this medication, continue reading to learn about 3 things you should know before it’s administered!
Fact #1: It’s Considered Safe
Many patients worry that any drug that relieves pain must be dangerous or addictive by default, but that’s thankfully not the case. Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, has been used for more than 200 years and is considered safe for most people. Its effects and efficacy have been researched in depth, and it’s not considered harmful or dangerous.
Plus, it’s administered through a mask placed gently over your nose so you inhale the medication while your dentist works. There’s no need for needles, so it’s also considered non-invasive. That said, if you have other respiratory conditions, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it could interfere with your breathing and should be avoided.
Fact #2: It Doesn’t Linger
It’s easy to assume that you’ll be incapacitated for the entire day if you’re undergoing a dental procedure requiring sedatives. While it’s true that some types of medication can impact you for longer, nitrous oxide is known for leaving your system quickly.
The effects kick in moments after you begin inhaling the gas. You’ll likely feel light, euphoric, giggly, or even drowsy as the medication prevents oxygen from reaching your brain. This can keep you calm and comfortable while your dentist works.
Once they’re done, they’ll remove the mask and the sensations dissipate within moments. They may monitor you for a few minutes before sending you home to make sure you’re not feeling dizzy or wobbly on your feet, but it’s usually safe to resume normal activities after the fact.
Fact #3: You Remain Conscious
Although laughing gas can ease frayed nerves to help anxious patients receive smile-saving services, many people avoid it because they don’t want to feel out of control of their bodies. If you’re afraid that you’ll be rendered unconscious, you can thankfully set your concerns aside!
Nitrous oxide induces feelings of well-being that can potentially relax you enough that you want to doze off, but it doesn’t “knock you out.” You’ll be aware enough to respond to your provider’s questions or instructions, but the details of your procedure might be somewhat fuzzy afterward. Many anxious consider this brain fog an added benefit.
Nitrous oxide sedation is a simple and safe way to help you undergo everything from basic preventative care to more complex procedures!
About the Practice
Patients at Goodyear Family Dentistry benefit from a team of dentists dedicated to helping you and your family build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. They offer a full menu of services from one convenient location to meet all your needs, including sedation dentistry. If you’re anxious, struggle to sit still, have a strong gag reflex, or require a longer or more complicated procedure, they can administer nitrous oxide to help you feel comfortable the entire time. You can request an appointment on the website or call (623) 925-8208.