Nitrous Oxide – Satellite Beach, FL
Feel Relaxed In The Treatment Chair
Dental fear or anxiety is a common occurrence, not just among children, but also teens and adults. It keeps many people from receiving the oral healthcare that they need to preserve their natural smile just how it is. If your heart starts racing in the treatment chair or you begin to feel clammy, our team at Merrill A. Grant, DDS, MS offers nitrous oxide in Satellite Beach to make your experience more pleasant. If you’d like to learn more about how we use nitrous oxide to keep you from having traumatic dental visits, contact our office today!
What is Nitrous Oxide?
You may have heard of nitrous oxide referred to as “laughing gas” before. It’s a colorless, odorless substance that you breathe in through a small nose mask during your appointment. It’s commonly used to help patients feel more relaxed and at-ease while they receive the dental care they need. It’s considered a completely safe sedation method when administered by a professional, and the effects wear off quickly, allowing you to transport yourself too and from the appointment.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Work?
After we talk to you about your treatment, we’ll go ahead and have you begin smelling the gas. Within minutes, you’ll feel a wave of calmness and euphoria wash over you. Some patients even say that it makes them feel as though they’re floating. While you’re under nitrous oxide sedation, you’ll be able to answer any questions that we ask you, but it will dull any discomfort that you may normally feel and, in some cases, you may even forget much of your treatment.
Once your procedure is over, we’ll remove the mask. Within about two to five minutes, you’ll notice that the effects have worn off. After your appointment, you’ll be able to carry on with your day as you normally would.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Nearly every patient is a good candidate for receiving nitrous oxide from their sedation dentist in Satellite Beach. Patients who experience some of the following will likely benefit the most:
- Dental fear or anxiety
- A fear of needles
- Difficulty sitting still in the treatment chair
- Dental sensitivity that makes treatment uncomfortable
- Hard time getting numb
- Traumatic past dental experiences
- A strong gag reflex
Patients who find themselves with the following traits or conditions typically aren’t good candidates for nitrous oxide:
- Pregnancy
- Sinus congestion
- Taking certain medications
- Respiratory disease
If you have any questions about receiving nitrous oxide sedation from your dentist nearby, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team will be more than happy to address any concerns and help you feel more comfortable during your next visit.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation FAQs
If you suffer from dental-related anxieties or have an upcoming procedure, your sedation dentist in Satellite Beach can help you sit back and relax. Nitrous oxide sedation is a safe and effective option to make your time in the dental chair more enjoyable; however, it’s normal to have a few concerns. You don’t have anything to fear. We’ll explain everything during your initial consultation. While you wait for your appointment, here are the answers to a few of the most common questions patients ask us to ease your apprehensions.
How is nitrous oxide administered?
A plastic breathing tube is placed around your nose, which delivers the perfect combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen. All you need to do is inhale. This method of delivery allows us to cater the amount needed to your specific comfort level. After your procedure, the tube is removed from your nose and the effects will quickly dissipate.
Is nitrous oxide safe for children?
When administered by a trained professional, nitrous oxide is safe for patients of all ages, including children and adults. We’ll learn more about your medical history and individual needs to ensure it’s the right option for you.
Will I remember anything after being sedated?
Some patients may not remember their procedure while others can recall the events. It’s not uncommon to have a limited sense of time after the procedure, so you may not remember the proceedings while you were sedated.
Who is ineligible for sedation dentistry?
In most cases, people who have good general health are candidates for sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide. We will perform a thorough consultation to ensure it is right for you; however, patients who have certain medical or health issues will be ineligible, such as:
- Women who are pregnant.
- Patients who have difficulty breathing through their noses.
- Patients with certain medical conditions, such as an obstructed bowel, obstructed middle ear, sickle cell anemia, COPD, or emphysema.
- Patients who have had Bleomycin chemotherapy within the past 12 months.
- Patients who can’t tolerate wearing a nose piece.
If you have certain pre-existing conditions, we may recommend another solution to ensure you’re comfortable during your visit. We’ll find the appropriate option for your specific needs.
Are there any special instructions for nitrous oxide sedation?
It’s important to fast prior to your appointment. Consuming any food before your procedure can increase the likeliness of nausea and vomiting, especially for patients who have a weak gag reflex. You’ll need to provide us with a list of any medications or supplements you’re taking to ensure they won’t pose a problem during your treatment.
Will nitrous oxide affect my heart or lungs?
Patients who can breathe comfortably through their nose shouldn’t have any issues with their heart or lungs. Your cosmetic dentist in Satellite Beach will take the time to discuss any concerns or risk factors during your consultation. Rest assured, you’ll be fully monitored during your appointment to ensure your safety. The risk of any adverse complications is minimal if you’re in optimal physical health.