Hide the Pain: Is Laughing Gas Safe for Dental Procedures

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is one of the safest methods of sedation available today. It involves the inhalation of gas via the lungs to the cardiovascular system. It is not to be substituted for local anesthesia. However, it is successfully administered to patients who exhibit the signs of anxiety.

Often called “the laughing gas“, N2O alleviates the patent’s apprehension without the use of more complex methods of sedation such as general anesthesia.

Advantages of N2O

Nitrous oxide does not break down in the body and is fairly insoluble. For that reason, the patient feels its effects within minutes. The amount administered can be easily adjusted during the procedure as necessary.

Because of the same properties, it can be quickly eliminated from the body by allowing the patient to inhale pure oxygen after the treatment is completed. Laughing gas does not produce any significant side effects, and the patient is able to function in their usual manner.

The gas is especially desirable for selected procedures, such as prophylactic cleanings, when the use of needles is not necessary, but the patient feels anxious. The levels of sedation are then adjusted specifically to the unique needs of each patient.

Disadvantages of N2O

The effectiveness of nitrous oxide greatly depends on patient’s cooperation. A dental provider from places like Dental Implant & Cosmetic, PC, may have to continuously remind the patient to inhale through their nose to remain in their relaxed state. Many patients tend to inhale through their mouth during the procedure which leads to the dilution of the gas and minimization of its potency.

The use of N2O is not recommended for patients who are pregnant or those with compromised immune systems. In addition, because the inhalation mask is fitted over the nose and face, some patients may experience the feeling of claustrophobia.

What Warrants the Use of N2O

Nitrous oxide is considered the perfect sedation technique as long as it is implemented along with oxygen. It can be safely used for children or patients with a strong gag reflex.

Medically compromised patients, such as those with cardiovascular problems, can greatly benefit from the administration of the gas. The use of N2O is warranted as long as the patient does not have a history of chronic pulmonary disease, recent ear surgeries or sinusitis.

Nitrous oxide is frequently used in combination with oral sedation and local anesthesia for extensive procedures such as crowns or bridges. These dental treatments may last 1-2 hours. The oral sedation comes in form of a sedative medication taken before the procedure. The local anesthesia will indicate the use of needles.