What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Going to the dentist can be a difficult task for some patients due to increased anxiety. Since regular visits to the dentist are critical to overall oral health, individuals with anxiety about visiting the dentist may be interested in learning more about sedation dentistry in Miami. Generally, anesthesia should be reserved for major dental surgery. But lighter options, such as nitrous oxide, can be used to sedate patients for regular cleanings and minor procedures.

Dentists providing mild sedation to patients with anxiety commonly use nitrous oxide, more commonly referred to as laughing gas. It is typically used when a patient is getting a routine cleaning or exam. Nitrous oxide is an oxide of nitrogen and is completely safe when administered by a doctor. It is administered through a mask and helps patients feel more relaxed. The effects wear off almost immediately after the mask is removed. There is little to no recovery time and patients are able to drive themselves home from the dental office following an appointment where nitrous oxide was administered.