Nitrous Oxide Sedation
When do I need to consider Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
PATIENT WITH A STRONG GAG REFLEX
Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is a treatment of choice when patients are nervous in dental settings or have a strong gag reflex. Nitrous oxide is a safe procedure in which nitrogen along with oxygen are inhaled. The onset is very quick and it also leaves body very fast since it is a gas. The root of the gag reflex is either a physiological, genetic or psychological factor. There are other techniques that can be used to help patients with their gag reflex; wiggling toes or humming.
TREATMENT OF THE MENTALLY/PHYSICALLY DISABLED OR MEDICALLY COMPROMISED PATIENT
Those that are experiencing mental and physical disability or may be compromised in other ways could benefit from nitrous oxide during their dental treatment. Nitrous oxide can also be used with children and it is also available for patients with cerebral palsy. Generally it is recommended to try nitrous oxide for anxious patients before opting in to general anesthesia.
FIRST TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY
Pregnant women may not be treated in dental settings with nitrous oxide during their first trimester of pregnancy. Nitrous oxide can interfere with the metabolism of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is one of the essential vitamins in our body. Vitamin B12 is necessary for DNA production and cellular reproduction.
