Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is very safe. The patient receives 50-70% nitrous oxide with no less than 30% oxygen. Room air has 21% oxygen.
The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.
The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.
There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide:
1. The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
2. There is no after effect such as a "hangover"
3. Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart lungs,etc.
4. Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging
5. It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds.
6. In as few as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.
Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide.
Though there are no major contraindications
to using nitrous oxide, you may not want
to use it if you have emphysema, exotic
chest problems, M.S., a cold or other
difficulties with breathing.
