What to Expect During Nitrous Oxide Sedation

If you suffer from dental anxiety and are considering using nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation during your next appointment, you may be wondering what side-effects you can expect from this treatment. Generally speaking, nitrous oxide is a very safe and effective treatment that can be used by almost anyone, even children or patients with medical conditions. But on occasion, you may experience some unexpected side effects. Here’s everything you need to know about what could happen while taking nitrous oxide.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, colorless gas that can be used as a sedative by your dentist. It is delivered via a mask that fits over your nose and is mixed with oxygen to help keep you relaxed. It takes about five minutes for nitrous oxide to start working, and once removed its effects should leave your body in roughly the same amount of time.

Side Effects

While there are usually no side effects when using nitrous oxide, on very rare occasions patients can experience:

• Confusion
• Leg pain and/or numbness
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dizziness/headache
• Fatigue
• Sweating/shivering

Please note that these symptoms are temporary, and often go away as soon as the nitrous oxide delivery has stopped.

Will Nitrous Oxide Make Me Tired?

While nitrous oxide will make you feel calm and relaxed, it should not make you feel sleepy or fall asleep. Furthermore, once your dentist stops administering it to you, you will gradually feel “normal” again, so any side-effects you may be experiencing will go away soon after. This means that you can drive yourself to and from your dental appointment and won’t need to arrange for a ride.

Remember, dental anxiety is very common, but it shouldn’t get in the way of caring for your oral health. If you suffer from this condition, speak to your dentist about sedation with nitrous oxide and don’t let your fears hold you back from protecting your smile!

About Dr. Kamali

Dr. Bita Kamali understands that sometimes visiting the dentist can be scary. That’s why she is proud to offer sedation dentistry options to her patients in addition to the wide variety of services she provides to improve their oral health. If you’ve been avoiding caring for your own teeth and gums out of fear or anxiety, let the team at Parkway Vista Dental help you overcome those fears with compassionate care and effective sedation options.

To schedule an appointment with us, please visit our website or call us today at 972-818-1300.