Caution! Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Safe?

Your palms are sweaty, your heart rate is picking up. You’re not watching a horror movie—you’re at the dentist’s office. After nervously waiting for your appointment to start, the dentist offers sedation to take the edge off your anxiety. Perhaps this seems like a great idea, but you may be hesitant because you’re not familiar with nitrous oxide sedation. What is it? Is it safe? What else should you know about it before you accept it? Get the answers to your questions here!

What Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation?

Nitrous oxide, otherwise commonly called laughing gas, is an odorless gas that has an analgesic effect. Although you may feel relaxed while inhaling nitrous oxide, it doesn’t necessarily make you want to laugh. As an anxiety-reducing sedative, it can be used for basically any dental procedure, including routine checkups and cleanings all the way through more complex treatments. For those who experience dental anxiety or who are feeling nervous about their appointment, this sedation solution makes the experience more comfortable.

Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Safe?

As a responsible consumer, you may be concerned about what you put into your body and rightfully question the safety of the sedation your dentists offers. Put your mind at ease! When administered by a professional trained in sedation, nitrous oxide is absolutely safe to use for dental purposes. In fact, it contains no allergens and is not addictive. This solution is so gentle that it can be used on children!

One of the nice things about nitrous oxide is that it can be adjusted while you’re taking it. For instance, if you need a little more to relax, your dentist can increase it accordingly. Likewise, it can be decreased as needed.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

When you arrive at the dentist’s office and take a seat in the chair, the dentist will place a mask over your nose and instruct you to take a few deep breaths. Within minutes, you will feel a calm, content feeling come over you. That’s the nitrous oxide taking the edge off your anxiety! Throughout the entire appointment, you’ll be able to respond to requests and questions and be fully alert.

Once your visit is finished, the nasal mask will be removed, and just as quickly as they came, the effects will wear off, allowing you to get back to your day.

Rather than suffer with anxiety at your dental appointments, you can feel more at ease and have a more enjoyable experience. Although it’s still good to talk to your dentist and ask any questions you may have, you can confidently say that nitrous oxide could be a good idea for you!

About the Practice

Boyles General Dentistry is located in Odessa, TX. Although they differ in background and experience, Dr. Franklin Boyles and Dr. Stephen Boyles are committed to providing a positive visit for each patient. If you would like to learn more about nitrous oxide sedation, you can ask us during your appointment. Contact us online or by calling our office at 432-366-0896 to schedule one today!