The combination of inhaled nitrous oxide and oxygen is a safe and effective means of managing pain and anxiety in dentistry, when used appropriately. Nitrous oxide is delivered through a mask placed over the patient’s nose. It is the objective of our office to deliver safe and effective anesthesia and sedation to allow for a comfortable and relaxed experience.
Advantages to Using Nitrous Oxide
- The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
- The equipment that is used has a fail-safe system that is appropriately checked and calibrated to allow for safe administration of the nitrous oxide.
- Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging, increasing relaxation, and decreasing pain.
- It is safe to drive after using nitrous oxide. The gas wears off once the gas is removed and the patient is allowed to breathe oxygen.
Contraindicatation to Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide should be administered with caution to patient with chronic respiratory problems such as COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or cystic fibrosis. Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you are pregnant, have a cold, or a psychiatric disorder.
In addition, nitrous oxide isn’t the right choice for everyone and results may vary. Talk with your dentist before a procedure and share your medical history with them. Based on your current health, your dentist can determine whether you’re a candidate for this method of sedation.