Nitrous oxide, N₂O₂, also called laughing gas, is a blend of two colorless gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide, that is often used by dentists for its calming effects on patients who are overly nervous or worried about a dental procedure, or who exhibit a strong gag reflex that interferes with dental work.

After reviewing the patients health history, the dentist will determine if the use of nitrous oxide is appropriate. It is safe, effective and helps one feel more relaxed during a dental appointment, and is even thought to be the safest sedative in dentistry. It is well tolerated by nearly everyone, is non-allergenic, has a rapid onset, is easily reversible, and the dosage can easily be adjusted by your dental provider or even by the patient.

A typical visit with nitrous oxide:

To use nitrous oxide, a small fitted mask is placed over the nose, and as the patient simply breathes in normally, it is absorbed through the lungs. It takes just a few minutes to notice the effects. Most people first notice a faint, yet sweet aroma, followed by a sense of well being and relaxation. Different descriptions of nitrous oxides effects include feelings of unconcern, happiness, or a slight numbness of the arms or feet.

Laughing gas raises the pain threshold and often makes time appear to pass quickly. Some patients have even report dreaming, though they remain conscious, retaining their natural reflexes and the ability to communicate. Since nitrous oxide does not numb the teeth, it is also often used in combination with other sedative agents when necessary.

Controlling the effects:

During the procedure, the dosage of nitrous oxide can be adjusted by the dentist to fit the patients needs. One can also control the dosage by deepening ones breathing. Breathing more deeply through your nose can increase the effects of the nitrous oxide.

Once the treatment or procedure is completed, the N₂O₂ is eliminated after a short period of breathing oxygen with no lingering effects. As long as other sedatives are not used that may have a lingering effect, the use of nitrous oxide alone does not impair your ability to drive home safely.

Preparing for a visit in which nitrous oxide will be used:

Its always a good idea to eat little or no food two hours before a dental visit in which nitrous oxide will be administered. Occasionally, nausea or vomiting has occurred when the patient has a full stomach. Also, make sure your dentist knows of any respiratory condition that make breathing through the nose difficult, as well as any medication taken the day of the appointment, as this might limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide.

Not all patients are alike. This means that safe as it is, N₂O₂ may not be right for everyone, especially if a person has extreme anxiety, nasal congestion, or discomfort when wearing a nasal mask. The dentist will review your medical history, dental treatment needs, as well as ascertain your anxiety level and discuss with you whether or not nitrous oxide is the right option for you. Nitrous oxide is a great tool in the dentists office and has allowed even patients with strong anxieties to look forward to future visits with equanimity, if not eagerness.