Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas”, is the most common form of sedation used in the dental field. Administered through a breathing mask that is fitted over your nose, it serves to prevent pain during your more invasive dental procedures while simultaneously bringing about a sense of relaxation in individuals who struggle with dental anxiety. It offers many advantages over other painkillers and sedatives, including the following:
- Fast-Acting: Nitrous oxide reaches the brain inside twenty seconds, inducing relaxation and killing pain in two or three minutes.
- Safety: Side-effects from nitrous oxide include nausea, if you receive to heavy a dose. Aside from this, the gas is very safe with no risks toward your heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, or brain.
- Versatility: The depth of your sedation can be easily adjusted almost instantly.
- Easy Recovery: Once you are no longer receiving nitrous oxide, the gas will be fully removed from your system within five minutes. You should not experience any sort of “hangover” effect, and will be able to drive yourself home after your procedure.
- No Injections: People who are averse to needles appreciate that nitrous oxide is entirely inhaled.
- No Gagging: If you are prone to gagging during your dental treatments, nitrous oxide has been shown to be effective in minimizing or eliminating your gag reflex.