Dentophobia, the official name for “fear of the dentist,” is commonplace. We understand dental visits are a source of discomfort for many people and we do our best to help mitigate your fears, making your experience as comfortable as possible. One of the services we offer to help make your appointment run smoothly is nitrous oxide.
What is nitrous oxide?
While you may not be familiar with the term “nitrous oxide”, you’re probably familiar with its unscientific name – laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is heavily utilized in dentistry, as it is designed to make the patient feel more comfortable during dental procedures. It separates perception from sensation and helps you to feel calmer and more at ease.
Nitrous oxide is a sedative that, when combined with oxygen, çreates feelings of relaxation. Classified as a dissociative anesthetic, it produces relaxation and reduces the presence of pain and anxiety within the body. You will still be awake and able to respond, but your body will feel light and comfortable while under the influence of this gas.
How do I ingest nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose during your appointment. You will begin to feel the effects of the gas almost instantly. After your procedure is finished, you will take the mask off and start inhaling normally again. Within minutes, you will go back to normal and will be able to continue your daily activities. It is safe to drive yourself home if you have been given nitrous oxide.
How can I get nitrous oxide at my appointment?
Our team is committed to doing whatever we can to make your visit as easy as possible. If you think that you could benefit from nitrous oxide, let us know! We will make the arrangements to have the gas available during your appointment and will take extra care to make sure you’re relaxed and comfortable during your visit.
It is not unusual to have a fear of the dentist, but it should not stop you from obtaining the oral health care that you need and deserve. If you think you could benefit from nitrous oxide, suffer from dental anxiety, or want to learn more about this sedative, contact our office at (614)-882-6741. We can teach you more about nitrous oxide and help determine if it would be advantageous to you.