Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Sedation Dentistry in Camp Crossing, IL
If your fear of going to the dentist prevents you from getting the dental care you need, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is a common and serious problem, but it doesn’t have to ruin your smile. With a little help from sedation dentistry, you can get the professional dental treatment you need without feeling uncomfortable or distressed.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Various levels of dental sedation are possible. For example, oral sedation dentistry requires you to swallow a tablet or capsule that makes you feel relaxed or sleepy, but unlike general dental anesthesia, it allows you to remain conscious and able to respond to commands. An anesthesia dentist can also choose to administer medication through an IV or an apparatus that delivers a controlled dosage of nitrous oxide gas, which is also known as N2O gas or laughing gas.
What Is N2O?
N2O is the familiar dentist gas that you inhale from a special mask. It’s an odorless, non-allergenic, non-irritating gas. Nitrous oxide dental sedation is one of the safest and most easily controlled methods of managing dental anxiety and pain. Used in sedation dentistry since the 1800s, N2O has helped countless dental patients survive their appointments without panic attacks or emotional trauma. N20 sedation dentistry can be used in adults or children, and it’s the only type of dental sedation that allows patients to safely drive themselves home after their procedures. To find a laughing gas dentist or learn more about N20 sedation dentistry in Camp Crossing, contact our office.
Why Use N20 Sedation Dentistry?
N20 sedation dentistry is an ideal option for many people who suffer from a fear of the dentist or dental procedures. It has several advantages over other types of dental sedation. It’s relatively inexpensive, it acts quickly, and its effects can be reduced or reversed within minutes if needed. Because it’s a gas, no IV lines are required. Like other forms of sedation dentistry, nitrous oxide can produce a profoundly relaxed state, but because it is short-acting, you won’t be incapacitated for hours after your procedure. Most people find that N20 sedation dentistry in Camp Crossing is a pleasant experience as well as a practical solution.
What Does Laughing Gas Do?
Nitrous oxide begins to work within three to five minutes after you inhale it. It’s an ideal product for sedation dentistry because it depresses nearly all forms of sensation, including pain, hearing and touch. For most people, the popular dentist gas produces a sense of euphoria or giddiness. Many people report a dream-like, floating or tingling sensation. The nickname “laughing gas” comes from N2O’s tendency to produce an irresistible urge to laugh or giggle. A laughing gas dentist can alter your dosage of N2O within seconds if needed.
How Long Does Laughing Gas Last?
Once you stop inhaling from the dentist’s gas mask and breathe normally, the effects of laughing gas begin to diminish. Within three to five minutes, all sedative effects of nitrous oxide dental gas are completely gone, and you can function normally. Few agents used in sedation dentistry provide such precise control and safety.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
Sedation dentistry cost depends on several factors, including the type of sedation your anesthesia dentist offers, the length and complexity of your procedure and your personal preferences. In general, nitrous oxide gas costs less than IV or general anesthesia. Our dentists work with you closely to find the ideal sedation dentistry solution for your needs.
Don’t avoid dental care because of fear; sedation dentistry can help. To learn more about N20 sedation dentistry in Camp Crossing, contact us today.
