- Nitrous Oxide
- Oral Sedatives
The Benefits Of
Using Nitrous Oxide
The “Conscious Sedation” effect of Nitrous Oxide starts to work very quickly
Safe for children and adults
It helps to relax an overly sensitive gag reflux
There are no side-effects to your heart, lungs, and other organs
Patients who have had Nitrous Oxide typically experience minimal after-effects which won’t disrupt the rest of their day
Nitrous Oxide’s intensity can be adjusted at any point during use to ensure your comfort
What To Expect
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a light form of dental sedation. Your dentist will administer the nitrous oxide through a mask that’s placed over your nose. As the gas is inhaled through the nose, you perceive less pain and experience feeling of euphoria. Once the procedure is over, the nitrous oxide wears off almost immediately with virtually no effects or recovery time.
Before you arrive at the office for your treatment using Nitrous Oxide, you should eat lightly.
When your dental professionals are ready to begin the procedure, you will be given a mask that will administer the Nitrous Oxide. The Nitrous Oxide will be colourless and odorless, and it should begin working soon after placing the mask on.
Throughout your procedure, your Landmark Dental team will be checking in with you to monitor your comfort levels and can adjust the levels of the Nitrous Oxide being inhaled at any time.
When your procedure has been completed, you will be given Oxygen through the mask for several minutes to remove any remaining Nitrous Oxide from your lungs to regain alertness and avoid headaches.
Who Is A Candidate?
The use of Nitrous Oxide can be a beneficial option for patients of many ages; however, there are certain health conditions that are considered a factor in who can and cannot be administered it. Nitrous oxide is a good choice for a range of patients who experience anxiety or who are unable to stay still in the dentist’s chair. Some of the most likely candidates for nitrous oxide sedation include:
Children who are unable to sit still in the dental chair – especially in cases where more complex dental work is needed
Special needs patients of all ages who are anxious or unable to be still during treatment
Adults who have anxiety about dental visits or who need particularly complex work that requires a longer visit
Patients who have a strong gag reflex that can impede dental care
Patients who have a fear of local anesthesia or intolerance for needles.
If any of the following conditions apply to you and you are considering Nitrous Oxide for your treatment, you will need to consult your dentist and your doctor prior to use:
Pregnancy
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Emphysema
Exotic chest problems
Asthma
Multiple Sclerosis
Immune disorders
A cold or any other respiratory challenges that impact the ability to breathe.
Oral Sedatives
There are different types of oral sedatives, but the most common ones are the benzodiazepines. When used appropriately they are safe and effective. If you and the dentist decide that you would benefit from oral sedation a prescription will be made especially for you. Please arrange to have someone else drive you and pick you up from your appointment. You should not plan to return to work or school after your procedure as you may continue to feel tired.
- Nitrous Oxide
- Oral Sedatives