Does the thought of a dentist appointment give you anxiety? Do you find yourself experiencing pain in your head, neck, or jaw when in the dental chair? Are you in need of extensive dental treatment that will take multiple hours? If you’ve said “yes” at least once, it looks like nitrous oxide sedation could be a viable solution for you. Keep reading to learn from your dentist in Springfield if it will put you to sleep, how it works, and the benefits of choosing this dental sedation option.
Will Nitrous Oxide Put Me to Sleep?
It will not. Unlike general anesthesia, nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that causes patients to describe feeling a sense of calm, and even “euphoric” or “light,” hence the name “laughing gas.” Although you may feel so relaxed that you fall asleep, you will be conscious, easily awakened, and able to respond to all verbal commands throughout the procedure.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Impact a Dental Patient?
Now that you know a bit more about the sensation associated with nitrous oxide, it’s time to discuss how it works. Essentially, a nose mask will administer the sedative. After a few minutes of breathing it in, you will begin to experience deep relaxation.
Once your dentist has confirmed you are feeling the effects and are comfortable, they will start to work. Throughout your treatment, the nitrous oxide can be adjusted as needed, and the effects will dissipate shortly after your procedure is done.
What Are the Benefits of Selecting Nitrous Oxide?
If you’re still trying to decide about nitrous oxide, it may help to learn more about the many benefits this calming solution offers. A few important ones are:
- The effects dissipate almost instantly, ensuring little-to-no recovery time.
- It’s fast-acting and effective.
- It helps patients who struggle with dental-related anxiety get the essential dental care they need without the stress.
- It allows more dentistry to be completed in a single visit.
- It’s safe and easy to administer.
- It helps prevent head, neck, and jaw pain in the treatment chair.
If you’ve never experienced nitrous oxide sedation before, then it’s completely natural to have questions about how it will feel. Now you know that it won’t put you to sleep! If you think that this sedation dentistry is right for you, then don’t hesitate to let your dentist know.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Tolliver earned his dental doctorate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He has comprehensive training in cosmetic smile design, advanced fixed and removable prosthetic restorations, implant dentistry, TMJ treatment, and Invisalign. Dr. Tolliver offers nitrous oxide for patients, including children. You can schedule an appointment on his website or call (417) 887-5757.