Nitrous oxide sedation, a safe and conscious choice!

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Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, was popular in the 19th century for its euphoria inducing properties. Today, it is recognized for its calming and relaxing properties, particularly in dentistry. The colourless, odourless gas has a slightly sweet taste and can be inhaled risk-free using cutting-edge equipment.

The analgesic effect of the nitrous oxide acts to enhance comfort while lowering the quantity of injected anaesthetics used during dental treatments. Patients remain fully conscious throughout the treatment, but are in a calm and relaxed state, fully able to communicate with the care team at all times.

Advantages:

1. Reduced anxiety in children and adults alike
2. Loss of a sense of time
3. Reduced pain
4. Acts quickly (a few seconds after inhalation)
5. Effects wear off rapidly. 5-10 minutes after the end of use
6. Makes dental treatment more comfortable
7. Positive memory of the visit to the dentist (particularly important for children)

What about toxicity?

Nitrous oxide doesn’t accumulate in the body, even after repeated exposure. It has no toxic effects on patients when administered in proper dosage. The gas mixture flows continuously through a special nasal mask, making it an ideal method of sedation for children and anxious adults.

Sensations lors de la sédation au protoxyde d’azote

1. Soulagement, bien-être
2. Détente
3. Impression de flotter
4. Plaisir, sourire, fou rire
5. Changement du timbre de la voix
6. Déformation auditive et visuelle

Are you a good candidate?

Despite the ever-advancing science of local anaesthetics to improve patient comfort, anxiousness is still fairly common.
As with any type of sedation, your dentist will make sure that your general state of health makes you suitable for nitrous oxide sedation.

Lowering anxiety has only positive effects during appointments. It enhances the overall experience and is much more comfortable for both you and the care team. A positive experience is likely to lead to more regular visits and better dental health.

Nitrous oxide is particularly useful if one or more of the following situations apply to you:
1. You experience gag reflex when an instrument is inserted in your mouth;
2. You experience anxiety at the dentist;
3. You are apprehensive about general anaesthesia.

Consult Dr. Aya Endo at the Parisloft Dental Centre for a full assessment or to find out more about sedation with nitrous oxide. Are you a good candidate?