Do you or a loved one become apprehensive at the mention of the dentist’s office? Does the idea of having someone poke and prod your mouth cause you anxiety? It’s common for children and adults to express nervousness when preparing to receive dental care. But what if there were a solution that could alleviate these feelings and concerns? Learn how nitrous oxide sedation works and why it’s just strong enough to keep you calm but not put you to sleep.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Actually Work?
Nitrous oxide – laughing gas – is a mild sedative that dentists use to create a calming effect among those receiving it. It’s odorless and colorless, so you do not need to worry about inhaling a foul smell during treatment.
When breathing in the gas, it will begin to slow your nervous system and dull your senses, so you do not feel discomfort or anxiety. Instead, you experience a euphoria-like effect – one that allows you to remain comfortable yet unfazed by your surroundings, but does not put you to sleep.
What Should You Expect When Receiving Nitrous Oxide?
On the day of your appointment, you will be seated in the treatment chair before having a small mask placed over your nose. The dentist or team member will slowly turn on the gas, allowing nitrous oxide and oxygen to come together and enter the mask. As you inhale, you will begin to feel the effects and enter a more relaxed state.
Your dentist will closely monitor your dosage and make adjustments, if necessary, to keep you comfortable throughout treatment.
As they perform the procedure, you will remain conscious enough to respond to your dentist; however, you may doze off. This does not mean you will be fully sedated; you can be easily awakened if needed.
Once the flow of gas stops and the mask is removed, you will breathe in pure oxygen until you begin to feel like yourself again.
Is Nitrous Oxide Worth It?
If you struggle with the idea of seeing a dentist, then, yes, receiving nitrous oxide is worth the investment. Not only does it allow you to have a positive experience, but it also makes it possible for you to receive essential oral healthcare.
You and your dentist can discuss the details associated with incorporating nitrous oxide into your treatment plan. This way, you can remain confident that you will get the care you need and avoid unnecessary anxiety in the process.
About the Practice
LIC Dental Associates is led by a team of highly qualified and respected dental experts who provide family and cosmetic dentistry in Long Island City. We recognize that many patients struggle with dental anxiety and prefer to avoid regular visits when possible, but we aim to change all that. Using nitrous oxide, we can create calming, comfortable, and positive experiences that lead to better outcomes in the future. If you or a loved one needs sedation to receive essential dental care, visit our website or call (718) 530-6539 to schedule an appointment.