Going Under: Will Nitrous Oxide Put Me to Sleep?

Dentists have used nitrous oxide for almost two centuries, and during that time it has proven itself to be safe, effective, and free of lasting side effects. Also called laughing gas, this colorless and odorless substance is often portrayed in movies and on television in ways that are not true to life, leading many people to associate this treatment with comical behavior or patients falling asleep. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when receiving nitrous oxide and why you will probably not fall asleep while sedated with it.

How Does Laughing Gas Work?

Dentists administer nitrous oxide through a hose attached to a mask placed over the nose, and the patient will notice a sense of calm and relaxation setting in soon after they begin inhaling the gas. The treatment raises the pain threshold, slows down the patient’s reaction time, and slightly reduces their awareness of their surroundings, making it easy for them to sit through their dental procedure while being able to respond to questions and instructions. While the patient can expect to feel some lightheadedness, it is rare for someone to doze off while receiving laughing gas.

Who Can Laughing Gas Help?

Nitrous oxide can make dental care much easier for patients with a variety of conditions such as:

• Dental anxiety: Fear or anxiety about seeing one’s dentist is an unfortunately common problem. Nitrous oxide can help many people with this issue enjoy calm and relaxing dental care.
• A strong gag reflex: While the gag reflex plays a crucial role in keeping the airway clear, it can make it difficult for dentists to treat some patients. By reducing a patient’s reaction threshold, nitrous oxide can allow a dentist to administer necessary care precisely and efficiently.
• Restorative work: It is sometimes necessary for dentists to remove decayed dental tissue while performing necessary restorative treatments such as dental fillings. Nitrous oxide can keep these procedures smooth, painless, and pleasant.

How Long Do the Effects of Laughing Gas Last?

Nitrous oxide is an incredibly safe and popular form of sedation dentistry in part because it is eliminated from the body within minutes of the treatment ending and involves no long-term side effects. While patients may rarely experience temporary side effects like dizziness or nausea after receiving laughing gas, these symptoms will be mild and fade away within minutes. A patient who receives nitrous oxide during their dental treatment can expect to be able to drive safely within fifteen minutes after their treatment ends.

Nitrous oxide has helped millions of people to preserve their oral health by enjoying comfortable and effective dental treatments. Consulting with your dentist can help determine if nitrous oxide is right for you.

About the Practice

Orange Place Family Dentistry offers exemplary oral healthcare to individuals and families in the Beachwood area. Led by Drs. Jed M. Koops and Thanh Mollica, the staff ensures that each patient remains safe and comfortable while receiving effective treatments in a welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as sedation treatments. To schedule your consultation for nitrous oxide, contact the office online or dial (216) 464-2448.