What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing or happy gas, is used for mild to moderate sedation as needed during dental procedures at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft in Frisco, TX. General dentist, Dr. Camelia Cooper uses nitrous oxide for complicated dental procedures, like dental implants, or if the patient is anxious about their dental exam and cleaning. Nitrous oxide is well tolerated by most patients and will bring on conscious sedation, which means the patient will be relaxed but still able to hear and follow Dr. Cooper's instructions. The amount of nitrous oxide inhaled by the patient will be carefully monitored and controlled by Dr. Cooper and her dental assistants.
What are the benefits of nitrous oxide sedation?
There are several benefits to nitrous oxide sedation, including:
- Fast-acting results
- More comfortable, relaxed treatments
- Alleviation of dental anxieties
- No needles necessary for this sedation option
- Quick recovery from effects
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Am I A Candidate For Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Since nitrous oxide sedation is generally considered very safe and effective for the majority of patients (including children age three or older), when administered by an experienced medical professional like Dr. Cooper, almost anyone can be a great candidate. Often, nitrous oxide sedation is recommended for adults and children with anxiety about dental procedures, those who may need an extensive procedure, or for people with a strong gag reflex. Children younger than three and people who are pregnant, have COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or are under psychiatric care and taking certain medications may not be good candidates for nitrous oxide sedation. During your consultation, Dr. Cooper will review your relevant medical history to ensure you can enjoy the relaxing benefits of nitrous oxide sedation.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Typically, nitrous oxide is combined with oxygen for safer results. To begin sedation, Dr. Cooper places a nasal hood over the patient’s nose and the patient is instructed to breathe normally through their nose in order to inhale the gas. The nitrous oxide will start working within a few minutes and the patient will begin to feel light-headed. After that, the patient will notice a tingling sensation, usually in their arms and legs, or a vibrating feeling that is followed by a warmth through the body. Once the gas takes full effect, the patient should experience a sense of euphoria, or well-being. Unlike other forms of sedation, Dr. Cooper can determine the exact amount of time that the nitrous oxide is needed. Therefore, it can be switched on and off at any given time, depending on the patient’s needs.
What Should I Expect After Nitrous Oxide?
Once the Dr. Cooper has stopped the supply of nitrous oxide, the gas should leave the body within 3 – 5 minutes, which means that the patient should have no “hangover” effect and is safe to drive home after the procedure. Since nitrous oxide is a relatively safe form of sedation, there are usually no negative side effects associated with the gas. In rare instances, a patient may report slight nausea. If a patient is prone to nausea, Dr. Cooper suggests they eat something before receiving nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide sedation FAQs
Is nitrous oxide sedation safe?
Nitrous oxide is one of the most requested ways for patients to relax during dental treatment. It can reduce your anxiety and make you feel more comfortable during your appointment. It's very safe and effective when performed by an experienced dental professional like Dr. Cooper.
Will I still feel pain with nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation may slightly dull sensitivity to pain, but it isn't an anesthetic. Any significant pain or discomfort during a procedure will be managed with a local anesthetic. Nitrous oxide sedation administered at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft is used mainly to relax any fears or anxieties you may have during a dental procedure.
How long does nitrous oxide sedation last?
After your dental work or cleaning is finished and the laughing gas mask is removed, the effects should go away after a short time. Depending on how you feel following nitrous oxide sedation, you should be able to resume your daily routine soon thereafter.
Will I fall asleep during nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation won't make you fall asleep. You'll be able to respond when spoken to but will remain relaxed during your dental appointment in Frisco. This method of sedation also has the benefit of mitigating the gagging reflex in patients who are especially sensitive to this sensation.
Can I drive home after nitrous oxide sedation?
You may drive home after nitrous oxide sedation, but you may want to have someone else with you. Because nitrous oxide is a mild sedative, you shouldn't operate heavy machinery or be in situations where you need to stay alert until the effects wear off. Our team at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft can provide you with specific instructions about what you can and cannot do after treatment.
What are the risks of nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation is considered very safe and has minimal side effects. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks involved. These may include nausea, headache, or dizziness. Dr. Cooper will closely monitor your levels of nitrous oxide to ensure your safety throughout the procedure. Our goal is to provide a comfortable and stress-free experience for our patients.
Is Laughing Gas for You?
When you contact Sweet Tooth Dental Loft to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cooper, we are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding sedation. We can walk you through the process and discuss the advantages and disadvantages. Please contact us today to schedule your consultation to see if nitrous oxide is right for you.
