Most regular dental visits will require minimal or no anesthetic at all for the treatments. However, some treatments will require the dentist to administer a local anesthesia to perform a dental procedure that may involve pain. Many forms of anesthesia have been used in dentistry to help numb the pain from dental procedures. While all forms of anesthesia have proven to be effective, some forms of anesthesia, such as laughing gas, are known to come with additional benefits. For this reason, laughing gas has become one of the most preferred anesthetics of choice for most dentists and patients alike. Read on to find out why.
What is Laughing gas?
Laughing gas is an odourless gaseous chemical compound of oxidized nitrogen. Also known as laughing gas, laughing gas has been proven to be an effective sedative. Its sedative properties are what make it an ideal anesthetic option in medicine, especially dentistry.
How does it work?
Laughing gas works pretty fast, and that is one of the reasons why dentists prefer it when treating their patients. Unlike other sedation methods which are administered either by injection, oral, or intravenous, laughing gas is administered by breathing in through a gas mask that is placed over your nose. Once the gas reaches your bloodstream, it will stimulate the production of feel-good hormones that may make you feel lightheaded in some way. It then stabilizes neuron activity, which numbs the pain. You will feel relaxed and comfortable during the entire treatment period. Like most sedation methods used in most dental procedures, laughing gas does not make you unconscious, so you will be able to interact with your dentist throughout the treatment.
Benefits of Laughing gas in dentistry
- Anxiety control
One of the most crucial concerns during dental visits is anxiety and discomfort. Your dentist wants you to have the most comfortable experience while on your visit. Laughing gas provides a calming effect that makes patients less worried or agitated, making treatment easier for both the dentist and the patient.
- Precise dosage
In the past, medical professionals had limited knowledge of the proper dosage of laughing gas for their patients. In modern dental practice, thanks to technological advancement, dental professionals can administer precise dosages of laughing gas for each patient.
- Pain alleviation
Pain alleviation is the main reason any anesthesia is administered, and laughing gas provides just that. By stabilizing neuron activity in the brain, the neurons responsible for transmitting pain will be inactive, causing a numbing effect.
- Safety of laughing gas
Laughing gas is by far one of the safest sedation methods in dentistry. This makes it safe for both children and adults. However, your dentist has to have proper knowledge and experience using laughing gas for it to be safer. Additionally, you have to inquire with your dentist if laughing gas is an ideal sedation option for you.
Conclusion
At Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, our dental professionals offer guidance to patients on whether laughing gas is safe for each patient and advise accordingly. Visit our clinic today to have the most comfortable and anxiety-free dental experience with us. Don’t let anxiety stand in the way of your dental health.