Did you know that an estimated 36% of Americans experience anxiety when it’s time to visit their dentist? Unfortunately, those with an overwhelming fear might avoid everything from routine visits to major procedures, which can significantly detract from your dental health.
Many dentists offer sedation dentistry, like nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to help you feel calm and comfortable enough to get dental work done. However, you might not want to receive medications if you’re scared they’ll render you unconscious. Continue reading to learn more about what you can expect from your experience so you can set your mind at ease!
What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a gaseous sedative that’s mixed with oxygen and administered through a mask placed over your nose before your dentist starts your procedure. This medication acts quickly to relax your body without any needles or injections, so there’s no reason to worry. Patients typically start feeling its effects within a few minutes after inhaling it. It’s considered safe for most people, with a few exceptions, and can be administered to people of all ages.
Not only that, but you don’t have to worry about a long recovery period after your appointment because the drug wears off within moments once the mask is removed from your face.
Will Nitrous Oxide Put Me To Sleep?
This medication works by interacting with your central nervous system to increase the release of neurotransmitters that calm your mind and body and slow your reaction time. This reduces your awareness of potentially stressful or unpleasant sensations that could interfere with your ability to undergo treatment.
Although you might feel somewhat spaced out or drowsy, you’ll still be awake enough to respond to your dentist’s questions or directions. You can expect a sense of well-being, tingling sensations in your limbs, light-headedness, and a bad case of the giggles (hence its popular nickname).
Does Nitrous Oxide Have Side Effects?
Most patients feel perfectly fine within minutes of removing the laughing gas mask. It’s incredibly rare to experience adverse effects, but it’s possible. Some patients might experience mild symptoms of mental confusion, numbness in their limbs, headache or dizziness, sweating, and nausea or vomiting. You can discuss potential alternatives with your dentist if you’re concerned about these possible reactions. Many providers offer multiple options for sedation, so if one isn’t right for your circumstances, a different one can be used.
Now that you know more about how safe nitrous oxide is, there’s no reason to fear your next dental appointment!
About the Practice
At Huckabee Dental, you and your entire family benefit from a team of skilled dentists who offer a full array of world-class services. Their team includes general dentists, an oral surgeon, and multiple hygienists, so there’s no issue too simple or complex for them to assist with. They take the time to get to know your unique needs so they can tailor treatment plans to meet them. Then, they utilize state-of-the-art equipment to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. If you’re anxious about dental visits and want to discuss nitrous oxide, you can contact the office on the website or call (817) 329-4746.