The Safety and Efficacy of Nitrous Oxide Sedation

If you’re someone who has anxiety about going to the dentist, sedation dentistry could be the answer to your problems. However, there has been some concern over its safety in the last couple of years due to its misuse among young people and club-goers as a recreational drug.

There’s no need for the concern. Continue reading to learn why sedation dentistry, particularly with nitrous oxide, is one of the safest treatments available at the dentist’s office.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a clear and nearly odorless gas with anesthetic properties. As the gas enters your bloodstream through your lungs, it begins to inhibit the receptors in your brain attributed to your fight or flight system.

This means that while you’re inhaling laughing gas, you’ll feel less anxious and perceive less of what is going on.

You won’t be asleep or unaware of your surroundings, and you can still communicate with your dentist. You will simply experience a light euphoric sensation that causes you to care less.

For patients who suffer from mild to moderate dental anxiety, nitrous oxide provides much-needed relief.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?

In the hands of a trained dental professional, nitrous oxide is completely safe. Dentists must undergo additional training and certification to offer nitrous oxide as a part of their practice.

In the many years that nitrous oxide has been used as a sedative, there has never been a recorded fatality. The gas is so safe that it’s on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medicines—a guide used by medical practitioners all over the world to determine safe operating standards.

Any serious complications attributed to nitrous oxide are generally referring to the dangerous recreational use of “whippets.” These small canisters are illegal to sell for recreational use in every state.

Are There Any Side-Effects of Nitrous Oxide?

There is a small handful of patients who do experience some adverse side effects as a result of the gas, but these are mild and infrequent. The most common side effects are:

• Headache
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Shivering
• Fatigue

Conclusively, nitrous oxide is a highly effective and incredibly safe way for patients with dental anxiety to get the care they need. Its use has been trusted by dentists for decades, providing a calm and comfortable experience during dental procedures.

About the Practice

At Stec and Stines Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, their mission is to provide quality dental care in a welcoming environment. Their team of experienced professional dentists is dedicated to ensuring the oral health and satisfaction of every patient. Utilizing the latest technology, they provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. To schedule an appointment, call (308) 382-4440 or visit the website to learn more about their sedation dentistry options.