Has the thought of visiting the dentist ever made you freeze up in fear? Have you ever put off getting needed dental work due to anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. An estimated 20% of Americans have neglected to visit their dentist because of anxiety or fear. Thankfully, there is a way to help patients relax in the dental chair – sedation dentistry. Your dentist offers nitrous oxide sedation to help you relax and get the care you need, completely stress-free. Continue reading to learn more about how nitrous oxide works, and whether it’s the right treatment for you.
What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that’s essentially a specialized mix of nitrogen and oxygen. It is administered through a mask worn over the nose before and during a dental procedure. The gas is also known by another name – “laughing gas.” It’s called this because after you breathe it in, a warm blanket of euphoria will wash over you. All of your worries about your upcoming dental procedure will fade away.
Your Wichita Falls dentist can adjust the amount of laughing gas you receive throughout your procedure to ensure maximum comfort. A great thing about nitrous oxide is that its effects tend to wear off quickly. Once your mask is removed, you will be taken back to the waiting room. Within half an hour, you should be able to drive yourself back to work or school and resume your day as normal.
Are You a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Sedation dentistry is highly recommended for any patient who has experienced even mild dental anxiety. If the thought of going to the dentist has ever sent a chill of fear down your spine, it couldn’t hurt to at least try nitrous oxide. Again, it will allow you to receive the care you need without any worries.
Nitrous oxide is also suggested for people who:
- Have trouble sitting still in the dental chair for extended periods of time
- Need a large amount of dental work completed in one sitting
- Have sensitive gums, teeth, or gag reflex
- Are uncooperative children
- Have special needs
If you have ever experienced anxiety at the idea of getting dental work done, you might benefit from sedation dentistry. Your Wichita Falls dentist offers nitrous oxide to all patients to help them receive the care they need without any worries at all.
About the Author
Dr. Shelly Strohman has been providing personalized, high-quality dental care in Wichita Falls, TX for 14 years and counting. She has her Level 1 sedation permit, as well as a certification in basic life support and nitrous oxide. If you need some dental work done but are nervous about it, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Strohman’s office by clicking here.