Nitrous OxideAnchorage, AK
Patients looking for a method to help them relax during a dental procedure or appointment may find a solution in nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas," is a sedation dentistry technique used by dentists to relieve dental anxiety in patients. It is a safe and effective way to help patients relax and remain comfortable during dental procedures.
Nitrous oxide is convenient and easy to administer to patients through an oxygen mask or nose piece. While this helps the patient relax, they will not be asleep during the procedure. Dr. Rex Malcom or Dr. Phillip J. Klump will determine if you are a candidate for dental sedation through nitrous oxide during a consultation.
Call Alaska Advanced Dentistry at 907-290-8870 to schedule an appointment and learn more today.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide
The administration of nitrous oxide is easy and straightforward. The patient inhales the gas via a breathing mask, so there is no need for oral medication, injection, IV, or other invasive measures. The gas is tasteless and odorless, so receiving it is pleasant and should not cause nausea in patients.
The effect of nitrous gas wears off quickly. Since it is in a gaseous state, once delivery stops, the patient will return their normal condition within a few seconds. Unless the gas is used together with other sedation or pain management options, patients should be able to drive themselves after the treatment.
Nitrous oxide is safe and usable for patients of all age groups, including children. Children with dental anxiety or need to undergo an extensive dental procedure may require nitrous oxide. We will monitor the patient and their condition during the process, ensuring the proper amount of gas.
How Nitrous Oxide Works
The dentist will encourage the patient to stay calm and sit comfortably in the dental chair to begin the process. We will place a mask over the patient’s nose. Once the dentist turns on the gas, the effects are almost instant. The patient may perceive a faint, pleasant aroma before slipping into a relaxed state. Since the gas may induce a feeling of euphoria or giddiness in patients, nitrous oxide is often called “laughing gas.”
Sometimes, the patient may become so relaxed that they sleep during the procedure, but not so deep so they can be woken up easily after the delivery of the gas stops. Patients often describe a dreamy feeling with tingly arms and legs. Nitrous oxide is an option to consider for patients who are worried about the sounds, sights, and sensation of dental procedures. It raises the pain threshold, and time passes faster during treatment. Patients often confuse nitrous oxide and sedation dentistry options with pain management options.
Although the dentist may use the gas with a local anesthetic, it does not exactly alleviate pain. Instead, this sedation dentistry procedure induces relaxation and alters how the patient perceives pain so that the dentist can perform the procedure faster, efficiently with minimal resistance. This is particularly good for major dental treatments, oral surgeries, or severe dental fear or anxiety.
Check out what others are saying about our Nitrous Oxide services on Yelp: Nitrous Oxide Anchorage
Follow-Up Care
After the procedure, the dentist will observe the patient for some time. Most patients do not experience any adverse side effects from the use of nitrous oxide. In rare cases of side effects, it could be due to a high level of nitrogen or a drastic change to the level of nitrous oxide. The side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, shivering, or vomiting.
The child will recover quickly, but if they feel sick, giving them some water or clear liquids, such as icy poles or diluted fruit juice might help them feel better. After administering a local anesthetic, the patient needs to be careful not to bite their lips or cheek until the numbness wears off.
Call Us Today
Patients with dental anxiety can now undergo treatment easily, fast, and comfortably with nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is a safe sedation dentistry option in the dental office. If you are skeptical about a dental procedure or afraid of going to the dental office, call us at 907-290-8870 and talk to our team to know if laughing gas might be the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How safe is Nitrous oxide?
While nitrous oxide can be used for both adults and children, it is crucial to determine if the patient is a candidate for nitrous oxide or not. This will involve our team reviewing your medical history, current condition, and other factors. Almost all patients tolerate it well. The effects kick in rapidly, it is reversible, and the concentration level can be adjusted depending on the patient.
How does one prepare for an appointment?
We will advise parents or patients to avoid eating two hours before the procedure because a full stomach may cause nausea or vomiting. Patients will need to inform the dental professional of any medication they are taking or if they have any condition that makes nasal breathing difficult. A stuffy nose or other respiratory disorders can limit the effects of laughing gas.
With nitrous oxide cause laughter?
Some patients experience intense excitement and happiness after getting the gas, which is why it is also known as laughing gas. However, it is more likely to make a child calmer than make them laugh.
What is the minimum age requirement for nitrous gas?
Nitrous oxide is safe for use in children age two and above. The dentist will continue to monitor the child throughout and after the procedure to prevent adverse reactions.
What are the contraindications of nitrous oxide?
Like any medical procedure, nitrous oxide is not suitable for everyone. Patients who are pregnant, have breathing disorders, a history of COPD, and drug abuse may not be eligible for the procedure.
Alaska Advanced Dentistry is located at 6917 Old Seward Hwy Anchorage, AK 99518.
Recent Posts
How Denture Adjustment Is Done
Denture adjustment is a necessary procedure that must be performed if your dentures no longer fit your mouth. Whether you have partial or complete dentures, these prompt your gums and soft tissues to adjust. Once the dentures have settled, they will also be likely to change over time. You may experience difficulty chewing or feel…
How Is Botox Used In Dentistry?
For years, Botox® has been a method to treat various health conditions and wellness issues. People have looked to this treatment to smooth wrinkles and other blemishes of the face. This drug is a toxin made from a specific bacterium, and it has many other uses today. You may even find that it is useful…
Why Is It Called All-on-4?
The term All-on-4® refers to a more convenient alternative than conventional dentures. It involves installing dental implants into the patient’s jaw to serve as the base for a special type of dentures that are fixed in place.Traditional dentures are the most affordable way to replace missing teeth, but they have issues like poor stability. This…
What To Ask At Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
A cosmetic dentistry consultation is the first step to getting the stunning smile you deserve. Before your consultation appointment, you need to know the issues you want to address, your budget, and the procedures you think will fit your needs. You should make a list of questions you want to ask your dentist during your…
Is There A Recovery Period After Getting Dental Crowns?
Patients considering dental crowns may have concerns regarding the recovery period following the procedure. Fortunately, the typical recovery period is relatively quick and involves minor inconvenience. Most risks and complications resulting from the procedure are comparable to those of most dental procedures and therefore require similar precautions.The placement of dental crowns involves two stages, each…