Overcoming Dental Anxiety with Nitrous Oxide Conscious Sedation
Some people fail to receive the benefits of modern dental treatment because of a simple yet seemingly overwhelming problem: Fear. It isn’t uncommon to have a little anxiety about an upcoming dental procedure. But if your fears have kept you away from the dental office when you know you really should go—take heart! Conscious sedation with nitrous oxide can help you lose that anxiety, and make the whole experience so stress-free that you may not even remember it when it’s over.
Nitrous oxide, a colorless gas with a slightly sweet odor, is a safe and effective method of administering conscious sedation—which means that you’ll stay awake during the procedure. But when used in combination with a local anesthetic, you won’t feel pain or anxiety. In fact, many patients report a feeling of well-being during this type of sedation. All bodily functions remain normal during administration, and its effects wear off quickly afterwards. Schaefer Dental Group offers nitrous oxide to ensure a comfortable experience for our patients in Lansing, Michigan.
How Is Nitrous Oxide Administered?
As a form of conscious sedation, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask that fits comfortably over your nose. The gas is mixed with oxygen as it is being delivered, and both gases are always kept at a level that is safe for the body.
- In just a few minutes, you may start to experience a floating sensation and perhaps some tingling in the hands and feet. That’s a sign that the sedation is working.
- Nitrous oxide itself is an anxiolytic (makes anxiety disappear). For some procedures, a local anesthetic injection may still be needed, but you won’t mind.
- You won’t be asleep—you’ll be able to speak, be aware of what’s going on, and you will remain in control. The dose can be fine-tuned to just the level of sedation you need.
When the procedure is over, the flow of nitrous oxide is decreased, and the oxygen may be increased. After resting for a few minutes, you can resume normal activities like driving. There is very little “hangover” effect afterward.
Who Can Benefit From Nitrous Oxide?
Most people whose anxiety would otherwise keep them out of the dental chair can benefit from conscious sedation with nitrous oxide. Before beginning treatment, we will take a complete medical history. However, if you feel that you would benefit from a more stress-free experience in the dental office, ask about nitrous oxide conscious sedation.