If you experience dental anxiety or have a sensitive gag reflex, nitrous oxide can help you relax while receiving oral health care. At Family Smile Dental, in New York City, the expert team uses nitrous oxide to make visits as comfortable and stress-free as possible. To make an appointment at either practice location, call the office in Sheepshead Bay or Midwood neighborhoods of Brooklyn, or schedule online today.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that slows down your body’s reaction time. You inhale it through a mask placed over your nose, resulting in a calm, euphoric feeling. It’s ideal for dental patients because it minimizes pain as well as feelings of stress and anxiety.
What’s more, nitrous oxide wears off quickly. You can drive yourself home following your appointment, without having to worry about the safety implications.
Who can benefit from treatment with nitrous oxide?
Family Smile Dental recommends nitrous oxide to people who experience dental fear or anxiety. You might also benefit if you:
- Have a low pain tolerance
- Can’t sit still for extended periods
- Need to undergo several dental treatments in a single appointment
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
You might also benefit from treatment with nitrous oxide if you have sensitive teeth.
Is nitrous oxide a type of sedation dentistry?
Yes. Nitrous oxide is used during inhaled minimal sedation. The gas won’t make you fall asleep or cause a loss of consciousness, but you may feel drowsy and relaxed. If your Family Smile Dental provider asks questions or provides you with instructions, you’re able to respond during treatment.
Your provider adjusts the amount of nitrous oxide you receive during your appointment, ensuring your comfort throughout.
Am I a candidate for nitrous oxide?
Anyone who experiences dental fear or anxiety is a candidate for nitrous oxide. Before recommending sedation dentistry, your Family Smile Dental provider conducts an oral exam and reviews your dental health history.
After gathering the necessary information, your provider develops a custom sedation dentistry plan based on your age and health. The providers at Family Smile Dental follow all recommendations for nitrous oxide established by the FDA.
Is nitrous oxide safe?
Sedation dentistry with nitrous oxide is safe and usually well-tolerated. Even so, anesthesia always presents certain risks. That’s especially true if you’re overweight or have a chronic underlying condition like obstructive sleep apnea. If you’re concerned about the risks involved, speak with your primary care physician first.
To learn more about the benefits of nitrous oxide, make an appointment at Family Smile Dental by calling the nearest office or scheduling online today.