Everything You Need to Know AboutNitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous Oxide (N2O) is a colorless gas commonly known as "happy gas" or "laughing gas." In 1772, Joseph Priestly first invented the laughing gas. However, Humphrey Davy played a crucial role in stimulating N2O research. He discovered the psychotropic properties of N2O in the 1790s and used the gas on himself to gauge its effectiveness as a sedative drug.
Considering this gas's sedative and relaxing capabilities, medical professionals frequently utilize this gas as a mild sedative in dental procedures. There are many more reasons concerning the extensive usage of nitrous oxide gas in dentistry, which are unraveled in the sections below.
Induces a Feeling of Calmness and Ecstasy
Nitrous oxide is a popular sedative used by dentists to reduce pain and induce pleasurable feelings among patients. The central nervous system gets depressed and euphoric due to nitrous oxide's effectiveness as a painkiller and anxiolytic. It is a reliable anesthetic that dental patients receive through a mask while being given a mixture of oxygen and CO2.
General anesthesia usually puts you to sleep, while laughing gas doesn't. Instead, the mixture gives you a light tingling sensation, making you feel relaxed and happy when you breathe it in. Besides, you stay conscious throughout the dental procedure and can communicate with your dentist without being anxious and fearful.
Easy to Administer
It is not necessary to administer shots or IVs to use laughing gas. You can breathe in the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture through a face mask. By breathing normally, you can allow the anesthetic to enter your lungs and start to feel sedative. In just 2-3 minutes, the effects of N2O begin to manifest in the brain.
Furthermore, it is simple to regulate and change the sedation levels. With the help of the valve system, the dentist can easily let out gas and filter more in if a patient needs more or less sedation. In most cases, the patient doesn't experience any aftereffects; after the gas treatment stops, they can even drive themselves home safely.
A Safe Sedative
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, nitrous oxide is a safe and reliable method for reducing anxiety (AAPD). When used under the guidance of a medical professional, it is one of the safest sedatives for dental procedures.
It doesn't harm any internal organs and is extremely healthy. Common side effects like numbness and lightheadedness stay for only three to five minutes after removing the mask. There are usually no 'hangover' side effects.
Children-Friendly Sedative
According to the AAPD, children typically find laughing gas tolerable and simple to titrate. When using the gas, many kids say they experience tingling or warming and are enthusiastic about it.
Procedures that allow the child to remain still for extended periods can benefit from using this sedative. Also, it is helpful to avoid anxiety among children during complicated and painful dental procedures.
Nitrous oxide is a professionally acclaimed sedative used to induce a calming effect and reduce pain during dental procedures. There are several benefits to nitrous oxide sedation, including personal safety and almost negligible aftereffects. It is recommended for children and people who are fearful or anxious.
Although nitrous oxide is usually safe, if you still need specific details about its administration and aftereffects, you can seek expert advice from Clay & Associates DDS, PLC. Get in touch with us today for more information!
