One of the most popular depictions of sedation dentistry in the media is the use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas”. This odorless and colorless gas is used as a mild sedative in dentistry, and it helps patients be calm and stay in the dentist’s chair while the procedure is done. Even better, the patient can drive right after the procedure involving laughing gas.
Laughing gas is generally recommended when a patient has dental anxiety, is restless, or has difficulty being still. Sedatives like nitrous oxide are different from anesthesia, as the latter helps you not feel pain, while sedatives help you stay calm.
What Is Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas is nitrous oxide, and it has been used in dentistry since decades ago. Contrary to public opinion, it won’t make everyone laugh or sleep when used. Some people react like that, but most remain calm and conscious during the procedure, which is typically short when mild sedation is used.
What to Expect When Being Sedated With Nitrous Oxide?
When you get sedated with nitrous oxide, a mask will be put on your face, and you will be asked to breathe in deeply. You will feel the effects of the gas right away. Its effects include calmness, light-headedness, tingling sensations, and slight numbness. You might also get a few side effects, but they are mild and usually disappear in a few hours (nausea or a headache).
Can You Drive After Laughing Gas?
The answer is yes. Because nitrous oxide is metabolized very quickly by your body, you will return to your normal mental state in a matter of minutes. When your dental procedure is done, the dentist will administer oxygen through the mask, and the effects of the laughing gas will disappear as quickly as they settled at the beginning.
While you might feel nausea or mild headaches, laughing gas doesn’t affect your ability to drive, so you won’t need company when undergoing such a procedure. The dentist will ensure that you are perfectly good to go before your appointment is over.
Because its effects disappear so fast, it’s usually reserved for shorter, simpler dental procedures, or even consultations.
Book an Appointment Today
If you have dental anxiety and you need to go through a simple or short procedure, talk to your dentist about getting a mild sedative-like laughing gas. It will help you remain calm and even feel a bit euphoric during the procedure. At the same time, you are perfectly able to drive yourself home or go on with your day immediately after.
Contact us for more information or to book an appointment. Dr. Gene Brabston has many years of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry and will make you feel welcome and comfortable while you receive pristine dental treatment in the Living Oaks Dental office.
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