Sedation Dentistry

What is laughing gas and what does it do?

Laughing gas, commonly known as nitrous oxide, is a mild sedative used in dentistry to ease patient anxiety and discomfort during procedures. It’s inhaled through a mask placed over the nose, and its effects are felt within minutes, producing a sense of relaxation and mild euphoria. Patients remain awake and can communicate, but feel less nervous and more at ease. The effects wear off quickly after removing the mask, allowing patients to recover swiftly with no grogginess.

What type of anesthesia are used for dental work?

There are a variety of anesthesia options available for dental work, including:

• Topical Anesthesia: A numbing gel or cream applied to gum tissue before an injection or minor procedure, often used in conjunction with local anesthesia to minimize the initial pain of the needle.
• Local Anesthesia: Applied directly to the area of treatment to numb sensations. It’s commonly used for fillings, root canals, and gum disease treatment.
• Sedation Dentistry: This includes oral sedatives and inhalation sedation like nitrous oxide (laughing gas). These methods help patients relax or even sleep through their dental procedures, without being fully unconscious.
• General Anesthesia: Renders the patient completely unconscious and is typically used for more extensive surgical procedures or for patients with severe anxiety or difficulty sitting through long treatments. It requires specialized equipment and monitoring.

The choice of anesthesia depends on the complexity of the dental procedure, the patient’s health, and their level of anxiety.