Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Sedation Dentistry in Tampa, FL

Nitrous oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is extremely safe; the patient receives 50-70 percent oxygen with no less than 30 percent nitrous oxide. It is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas that is inhaled. The patient can breathe on his or her own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

There are many advantages to using nitrous oxide for sedation during dental procedures:

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no aftereffect such as a hangover
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart or lungs
• Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging
• It works rapidly, reaching the brain within 20 seconds. In as few as two to three minutes, its relaxation and pain-killing properties develop.

Reasons Not to Use Nitrous Oxide

Though there are no major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, chest problems, multiple sclerosis, a cold, or other difficulties with breathing.

You may request a five (5) minute trial to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.