Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)
At Upcountry Dental, we offer nitrous oxide sedation. More commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide can help reduce anxiety and discomfort during dental treatment. ​​
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What is Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas is a sweet smelling gas that can be used as a mild sedative for dental and medical procedures. It has been used safely since the 1800s and is still commonly used today. A combination of laughing gas and pure oxygen is breathed in through a nosepiece placed over your nose. It takes effect quickly (within a few minutes) and leaves your system completely after 5 minutes of discontinuing use. Laughing gas can help reduce anxiety, make you less sensitive to pain, and make time seem to go faster.
How Does Laughing Gas Make You Feel?
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Like many medicines, laughing gas can affect some people differently than others. While it might make you feel giggly, it is much more common to feel relaxed, sleepy, tingly or floaty. Laughing gas can be adjusted or titrated to the desired effect. Some people only need a small concentration of nitrous oxide before they feel the effects; others are less sensitive and may not feel much effect even at high concentrations. While most people like the way it makes them feel, some people say it makes them feel out of control or too weird. For those that don't like the effect, nitrous can always be discontinued and the effects wear off in a few minutes.
When is Laughing Gas Used?
Laughing gas is more commonly used on surgical procedures such as extractions or implant placement or children who are not very cooperative. However, there are those who are especially sensitive or afraid of the dentist who need laughing gas for simple procedures such as basic cleanings. It should be used any time it can make getting needed dental care easier.
Do I Need a Driver if I Use Laughing Gas?
No. Unlike other sedation methods that take longer to wear off, laughing gas leaves your bloodstream quickly. It is safe to drive 5 minutes after turning off laughing gas. However, for larger surgical procedures or people who are very nervous, having a friend or family member drive them to their appointment is never a bad thing.
Will Laughing Gas Put Me to Sleep?
Laughing gas will not put you to sleep like general anesthesia. You will still be awake and be able to talk and answer questions. While some people report amnesia and don't remember their procedure, most people will still remember their procedure. For this reason more severe cases, such as severely impacted wisdom teeth, involved surgeries, highly uncooperative patients, or procedures where you don't expect to be able get completely numb, a higher level of sedation may be necessary.
Who is a Candidate for Laughing Gas?
Most people can use laughing gas safely. In order for it to work, patients need to be able to breathe in and out through their nose so it may not work for people with sinus congestion. It is not recommended for people with COPD and very small children.
Where Can I Learn More about Laughing Gas?
If you are looking for a dentist in Seneca, Oconee County, or the surrounding areas that offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation, contact us at Upcountry Dental. We'd be happy to answer any questions you have.