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Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Feeling anxious before an endodontist appointment is normal, but understanding your options for sedation and pain management can help. In some cases, nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is used to alleviate anxiety a patient has about receiving dental care. This is why the expert team at Commonwealth Endodontics offers nitrous oxide sedation to help patients stay calm and comfortable during their procedures. 

WHAT IS NITROUS OXIDE SEDATION?

Nitrous oxide sedation is a safe, colorless and odorless gas used to relax patients during treatment. It’s been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. The nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen in order to allow relaxed breathing as the patient remains calm and conscious throughout the duration of the procedure. In some cases, a patient may experience mild amnesia and fall asleep, not remembering everything that happened during their appointment.

 

Nitrous oxide works by slowing down the nervous system, which creates a sense of calm and comfort. This all-encompassing approach helps with both anxiety and minor pain management. For many procedures, your endodontist will use another form of pain management, such as local anesthesia, alongside nitrous oxide sedation. This helps further reduce or eliminate pain to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

ADVANTAGES OF NITROUS OXIDE

  • It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.
  • The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
  • There is no after effect such as a “hangover”.
  • Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
  • Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.

REASONS TO NOT USE NITROUS OXIDE

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, existing chest problems, M.S., a cold, or other difficulties with breathing.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NITROUS OXIDE SEDATION IN VIRGINIA?

It’s important that you don’t let dental anxiety interfere with scheduling your appointment to receive endodontic care. Contact us today to discuss the benefits nitrous oxide sedation can provide during treatment.