What Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation Feels Like

Sedation Dentist New York, NY

Many people are nervous about getting dental work done, but one way that dentists can reduce these fears is by using nitrous oxide dental sedation. Many have never experienced this type of sedation, so they may not know what to expect before their appointment or after completion. Read on to learn more about nitrous oxide dental sedation and what it feels like from the patient's perspective when you have your procedure done.

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a combination of two gases, nitrogen and oxygen. It's also known as laughing gas because it makes people feel relaxed and euphoric. Dentists often use nitrous during dental procedures that require patients to have their mouths propped open or when they need to numb their teeth or gums to perform fillings or extractions. Sometimes dentists will prescribe nitrous for children, so they don't hold still for long periods.

How it's administered

The dentist will first connect a small mask to a high-flow oxygen supply. The patient is asked to breathe normally through their nose, inhaling a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide. After about 60 seconds, they should feel comfortable enough to close their mouth and relax. The dentist will then administer more gas as needed.

The patient should feel a sense of mild euphoria. They will likely find it easier to open their mouth and remain relaxed throughout most of their appointment. Many people describe laughing uncontrollably while they're at the dentist's office, even though they're fully conscious. Others say that time seems to fly by faster than usual.

What it feels like

When nitrous oxide dental sedation is administered, you'll feel a slight tingling sensation with a general numbness. This will last throughout your procedure and make your mouth feel mushy but not entirely unresponsive to touch. Many patients say it feels like when you are lightly anesthetized for surgery - like twilight sleep or conscious sedation.

You may breathe normally during treatment and remain aware of what is always happening. After your procedure, the dentist will remove the mask, reversing the effects of nitrous oxide.

Benefits of nitrous oxide

The most common type of dental sedation is nitrous oxide. It's a safe, non-addictive option with little to no side effects that works exceptionally well for anxious patients. For those who want to get their dental procedure done quickly and efficiently, nitrous oxide offers unmatched results.

Unlike other forms of sedation, nitrous oxide is administered through a mask. This means that you won't need an IV or inhale anything until after your procedure is finished. During your appointment, you'll be able to talk with your dentist and feel less anxious. When it comes time for your dental cleaning, implant placement, teeth whitening, etc., you'll sit back comfortably while breathing in a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide.

With it being such a mild form of sedation and quickly reversible, patients don't need someone to drive them home. After your appointment, you'll be able to go about your day just as you would any other day.

Speak with your dentist today

Dental offices are increasingly aware of how to help their patients gain confidence through comfortable dental experiences. Call today to schedule your appointment and talk to the friendly staff about some of your hesitation. Getting great dental care that can help to restore a positive relationship with a dentist has never been easier. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.glassmandentalcare.com or call Glassman Dental Care at (212) 786-6884 for an appointment in our New York office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation in New York, NY.

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