Nitrous Oxide![]() What is Nitrous Oxide?You most likely are familiar with nitrous oxide under its other name, laughing gas. This form of sedation is one of the most common in the dental office. It is also the mildest form of sedation and takes effect very quickly after being administered. It helps you to feel relaxed while raising your pain threshold and reducing your gag reflex. Because nitrous oxide is only meant to help take the edge off, it is best suited for those patients with mild dental anxieties. Why Nitrous Oxide?Brushing and flossing are essential for preventing issues like cavities and gum disease. However, these habits alone are not enough. Professional dental care is also integral. Ignoring dental care, even routine dental visits can have a serious impact on the health of your mouth. Issues that could be easily diagnosed with a painless exam can go unnoticed. If this happens, they can worsen, which then requires more invasive, and more expensive dental treatments. Nitrous oxide allows you to feel relaxed during your dental visit so that you can get the care you need right when you need it. How Nitrous Oxide WorksNitrous oxide is an inhaled sedative. The gas is mixed with oxygen and then delivered to you through a small mask worn over your nose. All you need to do is breathe. The gas goes to work almost immediately, and you begin to feel more relaxed. You are still completely conscious during your procedure and can answer questions or respond to requests. When your procedure is complete, the nitrous oxide is turned off, but we leave the oxygen running for just a few extra minutes. This helps to ensure that all nitrous oxide leaves your system. The effects wear off almost immediately. You are even able to drive yourself home once you leave the office. Nitrous Oxide BenefitsNitrous oxide provides many significant benefits. These benefits include:
Professional dental care, whether a routine visit or a visit to diagnose and treat a specific issue, is essential for helping you to maintain optimal oral health. Nitrous oxide can be very helpful in alleviating anxiety, allowing you to get the treatment you need when you need it. Call Amherst Village Dental at 603-769-8985 today to find out if nitrous oxide is right for you. |