Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry in Hollywood, Florida
Dental anxiety is a real problem for many people, but this should not keep you from getting the dental care you need. In our practice, we offer sedation dentistry in form of nitrous oxide for patients who require it.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an odorless, colorless gas which you can breathe in and is one of the most common methods of conscious sedation. Upon inhalation, nitrous oxide diminishes pain and induces a state of conscious sedation. Because nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen it can be used for longer periods of time, usually about 70 percent oxygen and 30 percent nitrous oxide. It is the perfect sedation for many procedures and most patients find that it helps them deal with anxiety.
How is Inhalation Sedation Administered?
Nitrous oxide is administered through a mask that is placed over your mouth and nose. The gas takes about 5 minutes to take effect. First you will experience a tingling sensation, especially in arms and legs. Then you might feel warming sensations mixed with a feeling of calmness and happiness will spread. Many patients fall asleep with it, but will still be able to respond when the Dr. Gordon says, “Open wider.” A local anesthetic is given in the site of the procedure once the gas has taken effect. Once the procedure is complete, the dentist will remove the mask and within 10 to 15 minutes the patient will feel completely normal and after a brief recovery period, will be able to resume normal activities as soon as they leave the office.
Who Can Use Nitrous Oxide in Dental Procedures?
It can be used on both adults and children. In fact, nearly all patients can use nitrous oxide. Usually the only cases where nitrous oxide may not beneficial is with patients who have breathing difficulties such as asthma or severe bronchitis and other lung disorders. It is best to consult with Dr. Gordon to find out if the use of nitrous oxide is best for you.
Advantages of Nitrous Oxide
- Works rapidly, reaching the brain in 20 seconds and working on the body within 5 minutes
- No long lasting side effects
- Inhalation sedation is safe
- Few side effects associated with nitrous oxide
- No injection required
- Patients can resume normal activities right after treatment
- Possible for dentists to give incremental doses until optimal sedation is achieved
- Moment-to-moment depth of sedation can be altered by the dentist
- Can be administered for the exact amount of time it is needed
- Can effectively minimize or even eliminate severe gagging reflexes
What if You Don’t Like How it Feels?
If you have any concerns, or questions about the administration and use of nitrous oxide, you should consult with your practitioner. If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable at any time during the administration of the inhalation sedation, tell Dr. Gordon.
Is there Something You Need to Do before Taking Nitrous Oxide?
The only thing you have to be concerned about with nitrous oxide is making sure the dentist knows about any changes in your medical history. If you are currently taking any medications or are suffering from a respiratory problem, then you should tell the dentist prior to treatment. Also in most cases, you should avoid eating large meals before the appointment.
Sedation Dentistry from Dr. Karen Gordon
If you are anxious or fearful about visiting the dentist, talk to Dr. Gordon about the option of using nitrous oxide for some of your dental care and dental cleanings. Nitrous oxide can be used by all members of your family to keep them calm and comfortable during dental treatments.
If you have any questions about the treatments we provide or about nitrous oxide and sedation dentistry, please contact us at (954) 613-9837.
