Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative usually used to calm the patient’s nerves during dental procedures. Many patients tend to experience dental phobia while visiting the dentist, which could be due to the fear of needles and the sophisticated equipment or the misconception that all dental procedures are painful. The dentist will diagnose you thoroughly and determine a suitable dosage as per the requirement.
Children, especially under the age of 10, tend to make a lot of fuss while visiting the dentist. This can adversely impact the effectiveness of the treatment we provide. Although parents may try to hold them steady in the dental chair, it may become a bit too much for them to handle. In such instances, we would suggest the use of nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is one of the mildest oral sedatives that induce a soothing effect on the patient. The dentist places a comfortably fitting mask on the patient’s mouth and nose, through which they can inhale the sedative. Nitrous oxide is also known by the common name - laughing gas. This is due to the effect it produces, as it makes even the most ordinary things seem funny. This gradually calms the patient’s nerves and helps them stay composed.
Nitrous oxide is safe for use in both children and adults. It doesn’t cause any permanent changes to the patient, and its sedative effects wear off after a short while without the need for a recovering agent. Moreover, we only suggest nitrous oxide if absolutely necessary.
You may schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts by calling us at (925) 566-8738 or reaching us through an online query. We’re always happy to help.