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The idea of going to a dental clinic may seem scary for some kids and may even prove to be challenging for some adults. Imagine all the dental tools stuck in your mouth and used to work on your teeth. It is for this reason that the use of nitrous oxide has been introduced in the dental industry.
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide helps patients of all ages to relax so that emergency dental care can be properly pursued. A dentist will gently place a breathing mask over your nose with oxygen mixed with nitrous oxide. Once you feel relaxed, your dentist will begin the dental procedures.
The good thing about laughing gas is that it’s quick to act and wear off. However, does it have any lingering side effects? Keep on reading to find out more.
What laughing gas is for
In simple terms, laughing gas is used to relax patients who are undergoing dental works. It can be used for different dental procedures, from oral prophylaxis to filling cavities down to tooth extraction. It is well suited for patients who have dental anxiety. It is also for patients who have special needs, which makes getting emergency dental care quite challenging. However, certain procedures require local anesthesia for pain management. At this point, it’s best to consult with your dentist to know if you need any anesthesia or you will need to be administered with laughing gas.
How it’s quick to relax you
When administered, nitrous oxide relaxes you without putting you to sleep compared to sedation methods. It’s not considered “sleep dentistry” as you are awake and responsive during the dental procedure. You may feel a little giddy, where you may giggle a little during the treatment. However, you will still be able to get by and cooperate with your emergency dentist. That said, it’s highly recommended that you talk to your dentist about your dental anxiety and fear so that they can decide what best for you.
How it’s quick to wear off
Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, as soon as the breathing mask is removed. This means that you’ll be able to go home immediately, return to work, or go back to school after the procedure.
How it has no lingering side effects
Finally, laughing gas has no lingering side effects and is safe for use. Yes, you may feel a little light-headed while breathing in laughing gas. However, you’ll feel safe and relaxed in the chair. After removing the mask, you will immediately get back to your normal rhythm. In fact, you can even drive home soon after your dental procedure.
At this point, you now have an idea as to what laughing gas is for and how it works. If there’s one thing that you should have realized, it is that laughing gas is quick to act and wear off. Even with its use, there are no lingering side effects that will affect you. Getting dental works is now painless and easy!
If you’re looking for a local dentist to help you know more about laughing gas, get in touch with us today for a free consultation!
