Sedation Dentistry – Lewisville, TX

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is more commonly known as “laughing gas” because, when it’s administered, it produces feelings of euphoria and joy that may make you want to laugh. It’s given through a mask worn over your nose before, during, and slightly after your dental procedure. You will breathe in a special mixture of nitrogen and oxygen, hence the name nitrous oxide. After just a few minutes, a wave of relaxation will wash over you, allowing you to get the dental care you need without any stress.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?

Anyone who experiences mild to moderate dental anxiety can benefit from nitrous oxide from their sedation dentist in Lewisville. Your anxieties will be a thing of the past once the mask is placed over your nose. However, sedation isn’t only for patients with dental fears. It can also be used if you aren’t anxious but have an extensive amount of dental work that needs to be done in one sitting. Keeping your mouth open for a long period of time can get tiring after a while, so nitrous oxide is here to help.

You might also be an excellent candidate for nitrous oxide sedation if you have a low pain threshold, or sensitive teeth, gums, or gag reflex that makes getting dental work difficult. Additionally, uncooperative children, those with special needs, or patients who have a hard time sitting still for extended periods of time might benefit from sedation dentistry.

What to Expect During Nitrous Oxide Sedation

As mentioned earlier, you will be given a mask to wear over your nose. Within minutes, a wave of relaxation will wash over you, allowing you to get the procedure you need done with no worries. During the procedure, you should feel absolutely no pain or even discomfort. Once the procedure is finished, the mask will be removed, and you will be taken to the waiting room. The effects of the gas should wear off within half an hour, allowing you to drive yourself back to work or school afterwards.

Nitrous Oxide FAQs

If you have an upcoming procedure or you struggle with dental fears, your sedation dentist in Lewisville can help you relax with nitrous oxide. The mild sedative offers a variety of benefits to make your dental experience more enjoyable. While you know it has its advantages, it’s normal to have questions. We’ll take the time to answer them during your initial consultation. While you wait for your visit, here are the answers to a few of the most common concerns we hear to help ease your anxieties.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a translucent gas that’s a common dental sedative to eliminate potential pain while helping a patient relaxed. It’s inhaled through a mask that’s worn over the nose. Your dentist can control the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture using a small knob and switch. They can increase the dosage in small increments to cater to your specific comfort needs. A flow meter is used to regulate the levels for your safety.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

Nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas, causes a tingling sensation that creates a feeling of euphoria. As it takes effect, you’ll reach a deep level of relaxation to the point you may even fall asleep. You won’t be unconscious, so you can still be awakened easily to respond to the dentist’s ques. Although you aren’t asleep, you won’t feel any pain when used for minimally invasive procedures.

What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?

Many patients report tingling in their upper and lower extremities after first inhaling the sedative. It’s often said to feel like a vibration throughout the body. A warm feeling may wash over you, and it may even seem like you’re floating.

Will I Need Someone to Drive Me Home?

An amazing advantage of nitrous oxide is the fact it requires no special preparation, including transportation arrangements. The effects of the sedative completely dissipate within just a few breaths of having the gas turned off. Most patients will feel 100% normal to drive home without any worry; however, if you experience any lightheadedness or feel impaired, speak with your dentist to coordinate a ride home.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?

Nitrous oxide has been a trusted choice as a mild dental sedative for decades because it’s safe and effective. Although nitrogen isn’t safe on its own, it isn’t a threat when in the form of nitrous oxide. The mixture used by your dentist contains 70% oxygen and 30% nitrogen. In serious cases, it can be a 50/50 mixture to ensure maximum comfort.

When administered by a trained professional, nitrous oxide is safe for both children and adults. It can be suitable for patients who aren’t candidates for other sedatives, like those with certain cardiovascular conditions.

Will I Need to Take Time Off Work?

Since there aren’t any lingering side effects of nitrous oxide, you can return to work the same day; however, depending on the dental procedure, your dentist may recommend you stay home to recover.