Nitrous Oxide in Katy, TX
Nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas, is a safe and effective sedative medication that has been used for decades. At Caspian Dental Center, patients have described feeling relaxed and at ease while breathing in the gas. They can respond to questions, but may not remember much of the procedure. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, so patients can drive themselves home.
How Is Nitrous Oxide Administered?
Nitrous oxide is administered as a gas through a mask. The mask fits over the nose and mouth and is worn for a few minutes. The patient remains fully conscious and can breathe and function normally while receiving nitrous oxide. In addition, nitrous oxide does not produce the “hangover effect” that some patients experience after oral conscious sedation.
Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?
Yes, nitrous oxide is safe as long as the patient follows pre- and post-op instructions. Before using nitrous oxide, patients should tell their dentists about any drugs, supplements, or herbs they are taking. Patients should also tell their dentists about any respiratory conditions they have, such as asthma, COPD, or sleep apnea.
Within a few minutes of inhaling nitrous oxide, patients should feel the effects of the gas. It relaxes them and puts them at ease. It also wears off quickly once the patient stops inhaling it.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide
Minimally Invasive Procedure
Nitrous oxide is administered through a mask that fits over the patient’s nose and, within minutes, the patient will feel relaxed. It does not need needles, which would worsen some patients’ anxieties and fears.
In addition to relaxing patients, nitrous oxide is also administered to reduce pain associated with dental procedures. Patients who suffer from dental anxiety often need multiple anesthetic injections and, subsequently, may experience more pain than patients who don’t experience dental anxiety.
Reduced Pain During Treatment
Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is an odorless gas that has been effective in reducing the pain associated with dental treatments. Patients who use nitrous oxide typically experience less pain than those who use local anesthetic alone.
Reduced Anxiety
Nitrous oxide is inhaled, so patients don’t experience any discomfort in its administration. When it takes effect, nitrous oxide puts the patient in a relaxed state. While inhaling nitrous oxide, patients are often also made to listen to their favorite music, which helps them to feel more at ease.
Safe for Children and Pregnant Women
Nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedation dentistry options available. It is perfectly safe to use on children and pregnant women. When inhaled, it even helps to relax them. Many children can remain awake during procedures like sealants and fluoride treatments.
No Lingering Numbness or Tingling After Treatment
The nitrous oxide sedation wears off as soon as the gas has dispersed from your body. You won’t feel any lingering pain or numbness afterward. You won’t feel groggy or sluggish after treatment. You won’t feel any lingering pain or numbness afterward, either.
Get in touch with Caspian Dental Center at 410 Park Grove Dr. Katy, TX 77450, or call (832) 321-4901 for the best dental care for your specific needs.
