How Does Laughing Gas Work?

A lot of people experience dental anxiety and postpone as much as possible going to the dentist and getting their problems solved. Luckily, with the help of sedation dentistry, you can manage your anxiety and get the treatment you need to restore your oral health. One type of sedation dentistry that allows you to relax on your dentist's chair is the use of laughing gas. What is it and how does it work? Let's find out!

What Is Laughing Gas?

Laughing gas or Nitrous oxide is a gas used by dentists to help patients through certain dental procedures. It works as a sedative and its effect is to relieve the anxiety the patient can experience regarding the dental procedure. Once you start inhaling the gas, you will start feeling relaxed and calm. Know that laughing gas does not put you to sleep.

You are fully aware and conscious the entire time you are under its effects, just very relaxed and calm.

How Does Laughing Gas Work?

Before any procedure, your dentist will ask for your consent to use the gas. The way it works is very simple:

• First, a mask is placed over your nose and mouth, and you breathe in the gas that comes through the mask.
• Sometimes there can be added scents to make it more familiar.
• After a few minutes, you will start to feel the effects of the laughing gas.
• You will start feeling happy, giggly, relaxed, and mildly euphoric.
• Maybe your arms and legs start to feel heavy and /or tingly.
• After your dentist finishes the procedure, the mask is removed.
• The effects of the gas start to go away after a few minutes.
• You might get pure oxygen to inhale so that they fully recover within minutes and avoid headaches and help you eliminate the gas from the body faster

When it comes to using laughing gas, you can have a conversation with your dentist about possible side effects and how or why they can occur. Most patients do not have side effects, but the most common ones can be:

• Headaches
• Shivering
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleepiness

Who Benefits the Most from Laughing Gas?

It is beneficial to anyone, but some patients might need it more. Patients that are/have:

• Scared, anxious, or uncooperative
• Special health care needs
• Gag reflexes that interfere with dental care
• Do not respond adequately to local anesthesia
• Must undergo lengthy dental procedures

Have someone with you and avoid driving afterward. It is best to wait until you are fully recovered so that you avoid any incidents. Relaxed Dentistry at White Dental SpaAt White Dental Spa, our Dallas dentists think that you don't have to suffer or be uncomfortable to get a beautiful and healthy smile. With us, you will get an enjoyable and pain-free experience. Make an appointment with us and give your smile a luxurious spa moment.