Many patients experience anxiety when it comes to dental appointments, regardless of the reason for them. Whether you need a routine checkup and cleaning or have a more complex procedure to undergo, your provider can offer sedation, like nitrous oxide, to help get you through it.
However, you might avoid this medication if you’re scared it will render you unconscious during your treatment. If you’re worried that this sedative will “knock you out”, continue reading to learn why you can safely set your concerns aside!
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a popular sedative that’s inhaled through a gas mask placed over your nose while your dentist works. This medication starts working moments after you first breathe it in and dissipates just as quickly once the mask is removed. It doesn’t usually cause lingering side effects, so patients can typically resume their usual routine following their appointment.
Medical professionals have used it for centuries, so its effects are well-documented, and it’s considered safe for most people. But that doesn’t mean it’s the right solution to meet everyone’s unique needs. You must consult your dentist to ensure you’re a good candidate before they can safely administer nitrous oxide.
You might assume this sedative is only available for complex procedures, but your dentist might also recommend this sedative if you have:
- Anxiety or agitation regarding dental visits.
- A sensitive gag reflex.
- Challenges sitting still for longer periods.
- Several treatments or a lengthier procedure to complete.
- Resistance or allergies to local anesthetics or numbing gels.
What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?
This medication usually induces deep calm and relaxation, though it also sometimes causes euphoric sensations or tingling in the limbs that can leave you with a bad case of giggles, which may be where it got its more common nickname.
Many people report a lightweight or ‘floating’ sensation, but this drug doesn’t typically render you unconscious. It’s also technically not a pain reliever, though it does have studied analgesic properties that are beneficial for dental visits. Instead, it displaces oxygen from your lungs and brain, reducing your body’s sensitivity to and awareness of external stimuli.
Will Nitrous Oxide Put Me to Sleep?
If you’re worried laughing gas will put you right to sleep when you’re already feeling vulnerable in the dentist’s chair, you can set your mind at ease. You might feel drowsy or sleepy, but typically, you remain awake enough to respond to your provider’s questions and directions.
However, it often causes mild forgetfulness that can make it difficult to remember the details of your appointment afterward, though many anxious patients consider this an added benefit.
Discussing your concerns about dental sedation with your dentist allows them to answer all your questions based on your unique circumstances before providing any medication, so you know what to expect!
About the Practice
Patients at Spillman Family Dental of Rockwall benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping families improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. Dr. Spillman and Dr. Nguyen share multiple decades of combined experience providing a comprehensive menu of services to meet even the most unique needs. They combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver the most current services using current trends and techniques, including nitrous oxide sedation. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 945-0887.