Nitrous Oxide: What Is It & Who’s A Candidate for It?

If you’d rather be anywhere else in the world than the dentist’s office, you aren’t alone! In fact, it’s estimated that roughly 75% of Americans experience mild to severe dental-related anxiety. Whether it’s the sound of the drill, the sight of the needles, or previous trauma from a past visit, there are many things that can make you uneasy once you sit down in the dental chair. But fortunately, nitrous oxide sedation is an option that allows you to receive the dental work you need without any of the stress! Keep reading to learn more about this sedation method and what determines a patient’s eligibility.

What Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation?

One of the primary uses of sedation dentistry is to assist patients that suffer with dental-related anxiety—and nitrous oxide is perfect for this. Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is one of the most used sedation methods available. This odorless, colorless gas has been administered to patients since the 1800’s for the pleasurable sensations that it instills. Your dentist will place a nose mask on your face, and after a few minutes of breathing in the gas you will begin to experience its euphoric effects and enter a deep state of relaxation. You will remain conscious and able to respond to verbal commands, but your arms and legs will feel heavy, you’ll feel a little warm and fuzzy, and you might feel like you want to doze off—but you won’t! Once the dental work is done, the nitrous is turned off and you will feel back to normal within minutes of breathing regular oxygen; you can even drive yourself home in most cases!

The Benefits of Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide is advantageous for both patients and their dentists alike, and comes with several different benefits including:

• It reduces dental-related anxiety and ensures a comfortable experience.
• The amount that you received is safely administered and controlled by your dentist.
• There are no lingering or lasting side effects like drowsiness, which often accompanies other sedatives.
• It allows your dentist to complete more work within a single visit and makes the patient more compliant.
• Patients who struggle to remain seated for long periods of time will have an easier time sitting through their appointment.

Who Is a Candidate for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?

Patients who suffer from serious dental-related anxiety are usually ideal candidates for nitrous oxide sedation. That said, it certainly isn’t limited to just those who are stressed out about the dentist! Patients who need extensive dental work or certain procedures might need nitrous oxide sedation even if they don’t feel any anxiety. Additionally, nitrous oxide has been researched extensively and is confirmed for safe use in young children, elderly people, and anyone between—assuming your dentist can review your medical history. Some patients with conditions including emphysema, or even pregnancy, might be excluded from eligibility.

Whether you suffer from dental-related anxiety or just simply want a more comfortable and relaxing trip to the dentist, nitrous oxide sedation might be a viable option for you.

About the Practice

Desert Springs Dental proudly serves patients and families in the Gilbert area under the leadership of Dr. Shandy Condie! Dr. Condie received her dental doctorate from the Creighton School of Dentistry and is a member of the American Dental Association and the Arizona Dental Association. Her practice is pleased to offer several available services, including sedation dentistry. If you have any questions about nitrous oxide sedation or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Condie, she can be reached online or by phone: (480) 279-3100.