Nitrous oxide sedation is administered through a gas mask over the patient’s nose, allowing them to inhale the sedative gas. Once inhaled, the gas takes effect almost instantly and eliminates any anxiety or pain a patient may feel. Then, the anesthetic gas leaves the body in a few minutes once the mask is no longer worn. At Restoration Smiles: Adult & Pediatric Dentistry, we administer this type of sedation dentistry as the best option for patients afraid of needles and those who can’t sit through lengthy treatments without becoming restless. 

Nitrous oxide is one of the safest forms of sedation available to dentists because it produces very few side effects. While some patients experience nausea, vomiting, dizziness, tingling in the extremities, and fatigue after treatment, most are mild and can be quickly treated with over-the-counter medication. If patients have a specific fear they would rather not share with the dentist, nitrous oxide sedation may be the best option. It allows them to remain calm and relaxed throughout their procedure while feeling little to no discomfort. Patients can feel confident knowing they can avoid fear and pain when they avail of this option for their dental treatments.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Analgesia Work?

The gas is mixed with oxygen and breathed in through a mask that fits over the nose, allowing you to feel comfortable during your appointment. It begins working quickly to reduce pain, and you will feel its effects within a few minutes. You can hear and respond to any requests our dentist might have for you. However, you will remain conscious throughout the procedure and be able to drive yourself home safely afterward. Many patients report not remembering the process when done under nitrous oxide.

Benefits Of Using Nitrous Oxide Analgesia

Nitrous oxide is commonly referred to as laughing gas. That’s because it’s one of the mildest forms of sedation available, and people under the influence of nitrous oxide often report feelings of euphoria, lightness, and relaxation. In addition to making patients feel calm and happy, nitrous oxide also wears off quickly, allowing the patient to leave our office shortly after treatment.

Patients anxious about dental procedures may, if they are able, avail of nitrous oxide sedation. It can induce relaxation and even euphoria. Some people may also experience amnesiac effects from nitrous oxide, keeping them from remembering the procedure from entering the office until they leave a few hours later.

The benefits of nitrous oxide also include that it is an odorless gas easily absorbed through the body’s bloodstream and has a rapid onset for analgesia. It similarly wears off quickly, allowing patients to resume their normal activities. 

The benefits of nitrous oxide include that it is an odorless gas easily absorbed through the body’s bloodstream and has a rapid onset for analgesia. It also wears off quickly, allowing patients to resume their normal activities. To learn more about Nitrous Oxide Analgesia, visit Restoration Smiles: Adult & Pediatric Dentistry at 2 Coolidge St, Suite 202, Hudson, MA 01749, or call (508) 658-0661.