Laughing Gas

Nitrous Oxide – What Is It?

Nitrous Oxide (“laughing gas or N2O”) is a non – toxic, non – inflammable, colourless gas with a slight sweet taste. It is used as an effective method of relieving anxiety and fear of dental treatment and needles. It is effective on most patients and is frequently used, especially on young patients who require dental treatment.
Nitrous Oxide is a conscious anesthetic and during its controlled use the patient remains awake and responsive to communication at all times. The effects of nitrous oxide are fully reversible and we make sure that our patients are fully recovered upon leaving. Some young patients may feel tired following the appointment and nap.

Why use Laughing Gas?

• High anxiety for dental treatment
• Fear of needles
• Young children who have difficulty sitting Still
• Long or Multiple dental procedures
• Complicated procedures

Procedure for using Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous Oxide is given through a mask that fits over the patient’s nose. The patient is asked to breathe through their nose with 100% oxygen and the amount of the laughing gas is titrated until the desired symptoms are achieved. Its effect usually begin within 5 minutes. Once the patient is in relaxed comfortable state, the dental procedure is started & following the procedure before they are dismissed patient is asked to breathe again 100% oxygen for about 5 minutes to fully eliminate the nitrous oxide from the body.
Recovery from Nitrous Oxide sedation is fast and simple, in fact many patients feel refreshed afterwards.! A relaxing dental experience will definitely keep you smiling – or may be even laughing :)

Precautions

• Do not eat or drink anything for 3 hrs prior to your appointment
• Early morning appointments are ideal for patients under 12 yrs of age.
• Appointments between 9 am – 12 noon are ideal
• Pregnant patients and patients with breathing problems are advised not get nitrous oxide gas