Sedation dentistry is sometimes necessary to help people access their dental treatments, whether it’s for a long and difficult procedure, or to help someone with dental anxiety access even a routine service.
When most people think of sedation dentistry, they likely think of the types that will put you to sleep, and that requires a friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment. While some forms of sedation are like this, it’s not the case for all of them.
In fact, if you receive laughing gas, you will be able to drive yourself home!
How Does Laughing Gas Work?
Nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas) is a mild form of sedation that is generally considered safe for most people and even used when treating children. The patient will receive a combination of laughing gas and oxygen, which will be inhaled through a special mask that covers the nose.
You essentially inhale the gas and almost immediately start feeling its effects. You will become calmer, even more relaxed, perhaps a bit disorientated. Some patients can even become a bit giggly, which is where laughing gas got its popular name.
While you inhale the gas, the dentist carries out the procedure, and once it’s done they will swap the laughing gas with just oxygen, which will help remove any traces of the nitrous oxide through your system.
What Are the After Effects of Laughing Gas?
The laughing gas will exit your system with each inhale and exhale, and in just a few moments you will feel clear-headed and alert.
Some patients can experience extra symptoms like nausea or even headaches, but these usually do not persist after the nitrous oxide leaves your system entirely. In about 10 minutes or so, you should feel perfectly fine and able to get in your vehicle to drive home.
Are There Any Risks for Laughing Gas?
If you Google the side effects of laughing gas, you most likely will come across some very concerning things:
- Lowering of blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Prolonged disorientation
- Memory problems, etc.
However, these risks usually present when inhaling too much laughing gas or in an uncontrolled environment, which is not the case during your dental appointment. The dentist will provide a controlled dosage throughout the procedure and monitor you at all times to ensure your safety.
When delivered by a trained professional, laughing gas is perfectly safe, and can help a lot of people access essential dental health services.
Dogwood Family Dental Is Here to Help
We perfectly understand that some people need a bit of help to feel comfortable while getting their oral health addressed. The sedation options at Dogwood Family Dental are here to make sure you can feel calm and relaxed while we help you.
Please book an appointment with Dr. Taylor Enochs Engler today to get started!
