Nitrous Oxide
Laughing Gas
Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas that has a sweet smell and is non-irritating. It is safe to breathe.
For many years, nitrous oxide has been the predominant method of sedation in dentistry. The patient receives 50-70 percent oxygen with no less than 30 percent nitrous oxide, considered safe.
The patient can breathe on their own and control all of their body processes.
The patient may have slight amnesia and fall asleep during their session, with no recollection of what happened.
The use of nitrous oxide has some advantages.
- Sedation depth can be changed at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
- There is no such thing as a "hangover."
- Inhalation sedation is completely harmless, with no adverse effects on your heart, lungs, or other organs.
- Sedation via inhalation is highly efficient at reducing gagging.
- It works quickly, taking only 20 seconds to reach the brain. Its pain-relieving and relaxing qualities develop in as little as 2-3 minutes.
Reasons to avoid nitrous oxide
If you have a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you should avoid using nitrous oxide (COPD). Although there are no other severe contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you should avoid it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold, or other breathing problems.
Are you ready to take your dental health to the next level?
Call our office for more information about Nitrous Oxide or arrange an appointment at our office.