Many people struggle to go to the dentist because they have a fear of them. You may be in the same boat, and it may stop you from getting the treatments you need. To help their patients feel better, many offices started to offer nitrous oxide. This is a great way to help you relax, but you may wonder if it’ll put you to sleep. Here’s what you need to know about this type of dental sedation to feel at ease getting it for your visit.
What is Nitrous Oxide Again?
The name “nitrous oxide” often doesn’t ring any bells for people, as it’s more commonly called laughing gas. You breathe it in through a mask that your dentist puts over your nose. It’s slightly sweet, but what you are taking in is a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide. After a few minutes, you will start to feel its effects. You may experience a floaty or euphoric feeling, but it will help you relax.
So, Will Nitrous Oxide Make Me Go to Sleep?
Since laughing gas helps you be calmer, you may imagine that it will make you fall asleep. After all, it’s a sedative, so you may imagine that it acts like general anesthesia. The good news is that this isn’t the case at all! Nitrous oxide isn’t designed to put you to sleep, but you may doze off on your own because of how relaxed you feel. If you do, then your dentist can wake you up with a light nudge. You can also follow easy directions and answer questions.
Are There Any Side Effects Nitrous Oxide Has?
Since nitrous oxide won’t put you to sleep, you may wonder if it has any adverse effects. It generally doesn’t, but some people may feel slight nausea or headaches when they get it. However, when it clears out of your system after about five to ten minutes when you stop breathing it in, then they often go away as well. You’ll also be able to drive yourself home without a hiccup in your day.
In the end, laughing gas is a great option for many patients for their dental appointments. You may feel so comfortable and relaxed while you get it that you doze off, but it won’t make you fall asleep. Instead, you can look forward to getting the treatment you need; that way, you get the problem-free smile that you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Cornelia Dadaciu earned her first dental degree from the Ovidius University School of Dentistry in Romania and her second from Nova Southeastern University School of Dentistry. She has 20 years of experience, which she uses to give the Delray Beach community the highest-quality care they deserve. Dr. Dadaciu offers nitrous oxide to make your visits easier if you struggle with dental anxiety. If you are interested in it for your treatments, schedule an appointment or call her office at (561) 404-4804.