There is a nagging fear about your appointment with the dentist. Your child must sit still for the duration of the procedure. It’s hard to stop vomiting as the dentist places instruments into your mouth. Each of these scenarios may necessitate the use of laughing gas in order to assure a positive dental experience. What exactly is laughing gas? What exactly is it used for? What are the risks that are associated with it?

What does the Laughing Gas do?

Nitrous oxide (N2O) which is more often known as laughing gas is an sedative that is safe and effective in managing anxiety and pain that arises during dental treatments. The odorless and colorless Nitrous oxide is mixed oxygen and breathed in through small, small-sized masks that are placed on your nostrils. Patients are instructed to breathe normally and will feel the effects of laughing gas in just a few some minutes.

Contrary to what it is called it doesn’t necessarily cause laughter. Nitrous oxide can slow down your nervous system and makes you feel less tense. It is possible to feel lightheaded sensations, tingling, or the sensation of weight in your arms and legs. In the end, you must remain calm and at ease during the process. You may even laugh at times or two.

The Benefits from Laughing Gas

Dentists prefer nitrous oxide as it is a secure and effective method of the treatment of sedation. The laughing gas acts quickly to calm patients and the effects are absorbed quickly when you breathe pure oxygen through masks. Additionally, nitrous oxide will not cause you to sleep, which means you are able to hear and respond to any dentist’s instructions or questions.

A Effects of Laughing Gas. Effects from Laughing Gas

Most people do not have adverse reactions to laughing gas. However, they may happen if levels of nitrous oxide rise too much or the quantity of gas inhaled rapidly alters.

Headaches

Shuddering

Extreme sweating

Nausea or vomiting

Sleepiness

Once the nitrous Oxide is switched off, patients must to be oxygenated for at least 5 minutes to keep headaches at bay. The oxygen helps eliminate all remaining gas out of the lungs, while also helping the patient to become more awake and alert. Patients can also avoid sickness or nausea by eating a light meal prior to surgery and avoiding eating a large meal for up to 3 hours following the procedure. Check with your dentist about whether or not it’s appropriate to drive after the procedure.

What is the Laughing Gas used for?

Patients who are anxious, fearful or anxious are not cooperative.

Patients who have special health needs

Patients who have gag reflexes that affect dental care

Patients who aren’t responding properly to local anesthesia

Patients in their teens who require long dental procedures

Nitrous Oxide for Children

Are nitrous oxide and ethanol equally as safe to children? The AAPD declares the gas’s safety is generally suitable for children. Tan can be adjusted quickly. Children are often enthusiastic about using the gas , and have reported sensations of a warm or tingling sensation. The gas is able to speed up procedures that aren’t very uncomfortable, but requires the child to not move for prolonged periods. But, some children may be nauseated or have trouble using the gas mask. Discuss options for sedation options with your child’s dentist prior to contemplating dental procedures.