If you’re feeling nervous before your upcoming dental appointment, you’re not alone. Several patients these days experience dental-related anxiety, and it’s actually one of the most common reasons people delay or avoid care altogether. However, putting off treatment can lead to much bigger problems down the road! But there’s one sure way of making dental-related anxiety a thing of the past: nitrous oxide sedation. Here’s a closer look at this safe, effective method and what makes you a good candidate for receiving it.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as laughing gas, is a colorless, odorless gas that’s inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose. Within minutes of breathing it with a mixture of oxygen, you’ll feel a sense of calm euphoria, reduced anxiety, and possibly even a light, floating sensation. However, you’ll still be awake and able to respond to your dentist, but all of the sights, sounds, and sensations of the appointment won’t bother you so much as time quickly passes by. Once the mask is removed and you breathe regular air in for a few minutes, the effects wear off very rapidly, allowing you to even resume your normal daily activities.
Who Might Be a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide can be especially beneficial for patients who have mild to moderate dental anxiety and want to feel calmed during treatment. It’s also very useful for those undergoing longer or more complex procedures, who’d otherwise be uncomfortable or physically restricted from remaining still/seated. Similarly, those with sensitive gag reflexes, as well as children who might have trouble sitting through dental treatments, can receive nitrous oxide sedation.
However, while nitrous oxide is generally safe, there are still certain conditions that may make it unsuitable. Dental sedation is not recommended for children unless there’s a need for it, and patients of extremely advanced age may not be able to handle certain forms of sedation due to underlying medical issues. Women who are pregnant are generally not good candidates either. And believe it or not, in some cases, even respiratory issues can cause interference with sedation. Certain medications can also possibly interfere with different forms of dental sedation.
When planning your next procedure, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask your dentist about nitrous oxide sedation if you believe it could help make things go more smoothly. They’ll be able to let you know if there are any factors that might impact your candidacy, but rest assured, it’s a safe and excellent option for most!
About the Practice
Dr. John E. Petty received his DMD from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a feat that only 6% of all dentists accomplish! Under his talented leadership, our office proudly offers a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options as well as nitrous oxide sedation for those with dental-related anxiety. If you have any questions about the blog, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Petty at our Tullahoma office, feel free to reach out online or by phone for more information! Telephone: (931) 454-9499.