3 Of The Most Common Misconceptions About Laughing Gas

Are you about to undergo a significant dental procedure? Sedation dentistry services are common for those who are nervous at the dentist. Though most dental surgeries, such as root canals and extractions, can be done without sedation, sedation makes the process much more comfortable. One of the easiest and most effective methods of sedation dentistry is laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide.

1. Nitrous Oxide Does Not Relieve Pain

In fact, almost all anesthesia options do not relieve pain. Pain management has come very far in the field of dentistry. The shots of local anesthetic, known as Novocain, that you receive at the start of the process will block your nerves from transmitting pain. With or without nitrous oxide, you will not feel anything. The nitrous oxide is designed to relieve you from nervousness and stress, not pain.

2. Nitrous Oxide Won't Knock You Out

Nitrous oxide is a very minimal type of anesthesia. It does not knock you out or put you into any state of unconsciousness. Unlike twilight medication, you will remember your dental visit and you will remain in complete control. You will be able to communicate with your doctor, you will simply be in a relaxed state of awareness. There is no "waking up" from nitrous, there is simply a brief recovery process. In some ways, nitroux oxide is like being a little intoxicated; you know what is going on, but you will not worry about it.

3. Nitrous Oxide Will Make You Say Silly Things

It may -- but it also may not; it is not a guarantee. Nitrous oxide can have unpredictable side effects -- just like any type of anesthesia. Your impulses will be lowered when you use nitrous oxide, but in general, you will remain coherent. Twilight medications and other forms of sedation dentistry have a higher likelihood of compelling you to do or say strange things because they are deeper forms of anesthesia. Nitrous oxide is the lightest form of anesthesia and so it is the least likely to make you act differently, though it is still a possibility.

Nitrous oxide is a good choice for those who have some nervousness about a dental procedure, but it doesn't put you under very far. For more involved or lengthier procedures, you may want to opt for twilight anesthesia or general anesthesia instead. But nitrous oxide can be a good choice for those who are afraid of needles or for those who just need mild sedation. Your dentist can help you find the sedation process that is best for you.


Share