Do you have an upcoming dental procedure? If you are nervous or have sensitive oral tissues, your dentist may determine that you are a good candidate for sedation. There are a few different types of sedation, and one of the most common is known as nitrous oxide. How does it work? Will it put you to sleep? This blog post explains what you should know.
What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is commonly known as laughing gas. It is a colorless and mostly odorless gas that gets mixed with oxygen. Then, you inhale it through a nasal mask. It has been used in medical settings for generations, and it is largely viewed as safe and effective. Once you start breathing it in, you begin to feel its effects very quickly.
What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?
Nitrous oxide can make you feel relaxed, and it can raise your pain threshold so it is easier to tolerate dental procedures. Some patients feel giddy under its influence and get the giggles.
It is important to note that nitrous oxide does not put you to sleep. While some people may become so relaxed that they doze off, the gas itself does not cause unconsciousness. You will still be able to respond to your dental team, and you will likely remember your procedure after it is over. Once the gas is no longer being administered, you should start to feel like your usual self within just a few minutes.
Other Sedation Options
If you wish to be put to sleep during your treatment, ask your care team about other options that have more powerful effects. They might suggest:
- Oral conscious sedation: This involves a sedative pill. It does not cause unconsciousness, but many people feel as if it puts them to sleep, and it often causes mild amnesia. You may not remember your procedure at all.
- IV sedation: With IV sedation, medication is placed directly into your bloodstream. Similar to oral conscious sedation, it may make you feel as if you slept through your appointment.
Nitrous oxide is a wonderful provision, but do not expect it to make you sleep through your procedure. Ask your dentist if you have additional questions about how it works.
Meet the Practice
At Smile Design Implant Centers, we have four highly skilled doctors who provide a range of advanced services, including dental implants, gum disease treatment, and more. We want patients to be comfortable, so we offer all the sedation types mentioned in this blog post. To learn more or to set up a consultation, contact our office in Reno, NV, at 775-391-6636.