Full of funny videos, the internet has no short supply of clips showing patients coming out of anesthesia. They can say hilarious or embarrassing things, forget people they know and love, or make crazy requests. However, not all methods of sedation have to knock you out completely to be effective, especially if you’re undergoing dental procedures.
For example, you may have heard nitrous oxide puts you to sleep for dental work, but is this statement true? What is nitrous oxide really feel like when you receive it? Keep reading to find out about this popular option in sedation dentistry!
Does Nitrous Oxide Put You to Sleep?
When it comes to nitrous oxide, two myths seem to persist: one is that nitrous oxide can make you fall asleep during your appointment, and the other is that nitrous oxide will make you laugh.
Although nitrous oxide is a sedative, it doesn’t make you unconscious. In fact, it is meant to allow you to stay awake so that you can answer questions and move as directed during the procedure.
Another name for nitrous oxide is laughing gas, but it doesn’t necessarily cause everything to become funny. You may feel light and content, but actual laughter is very unlikely to erupt for no reason while your breathe in nitrous oxide.
What Is Being on Nitrous Oxide Like?
Now you know what nitrous oxide doesn’t do to you, it’s time to understand how it can affect you while in the dental chair.
Delivered through a nasal mask, this gentle, odorless gas consists of nitrogen and oxygen and is concentrated in a way that tells the brain to release calming hormones. Within minutes, you should feel warmer, more relaxed, and completely at ease. In other words, you will know what’s going on around you, but it will not bother you in the least!
During your appointment, if your initial dosage of nitrous oxide isn’t enough to take away your nerves, your dentist and their team can adjust the ratio until they find the perfectly comfortable setting.
What Is It Like After Getting Nitrous Oxide?
Unlike with stronger sedatives, the effects of nitrous oxide do not linger long after treatment stops. After the mask comes off, you should start to feel normal within a few minutes. In fact, instead of having to ask a friend or family member to take you home, you should be able to drive yourself or carry on with your normal schedule when you leave the dental office.
While medical anesthesia has its place with surgeries and other medical procedures, milder nitrous oxide is often plenty for those who struggle with dental anxiety, who have a sensitive gag reflex, or who don’t respond to local anesthetic injections. With nitrous oxide, you can look forward to experiencing your dental appointments!
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Boyles has worked alongside his father, Dr. Franklin Boyles, for a long time and has built trust with patients who have been attending the practice for more than 40 years! Now the owner and operator, Dr. Stephen continues this legacy of excellence and has already achieved a Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction only a small percentage of dentists achieve in their entire career. Give Boyles General Dentistry & Implant Center in Midland a call at 432-685-7011 or click here to take advantage of nitrous oxide during your next appointment.