Laughing Gas

The most common technique used in conscious sedation dentistry is inhalation sedation with nitrous oxide and oxygen (N20-02) or "laughing gas". 35% of all US dentists offer Nitrous Oxide Sedation to their patients.

Nitrous oxide is most often used for children who are mildly or moderately anxious or nervous. It eases their fears so that they can relax and receive treatment comfortably and safely. Nitrous oxide is administered by placing a small mask over your child's nose. Your child will be asked to breathe through his or her nose and not through the mouth. As the gas begins to work, the child becomes calm, although he or she is still awake and can talk with the dentist. When the gas is turned off, the effects of sedation wear off almost immediately. As the child gets older and becomes more comfortable with the dentist, nitrous oxide may not be needed.

Nitrous oxide is safe, easily taken and always delivered mixed with oxygen. When the treatment has been completed, the nitrous oxide is turned off and oxygen is delivered for 5 to 10 minutes to help flush the child's body of the gas. The effects of nitrous oxide should disappear as oxygen is breathed.

Sometimes, nitrous oxide can make a child feel nauseous. It's best that a child not eat too much beforehand. Also, if your child is congested or has trouble breathing through the nose, nitrous oxide may be less effective.

Advantages or Dental Inhalation Sedation:

• Works well for mild to moderate anxiety
• Rapid Onset
• Flexible duration can be used for any appointment length
• Absolute Control. It is easy to quickly control the level of sedation which may be altered moment to moment.
• People recover quickly
• Very few side effects
• There is an analgesic effect
• You can drive yourself to and from your dental appointment
• You can return to normal activities immediately
• Disadvantages of Dental Inhalation Sedation:
• Severe anxiety may require a deeper level of sedation
• Not indicated for people who have respiratory problems (Asthma and Emphysema)
• Claustrophobic patients do not like anything covering their nose
• What medications are used for Dental Inhalation Sedation?
• Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
• Oxygen (O2)
• The safety features of the machine insure a patient receives no less than 30% Oxygen mixed with Nitrous Oxide. Usually the patient receives 50 to 70% Oxygen.