Nitrous Oxide for Treatment Without Anxiety

Nervous about your upcoming dental procedure? We can fix that!

If you’ve ever talked to our Thornton, CO, dentist Dr. Christina McMillon about how nervous you feel when you need to have a cavity filled or even during a dental cleaning, then you probably know that we offer sedation dentistry. One of the most commonly used and most well-known types of sedation dentistry we offer is nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas. Here’s what you should know about nitrous oxide and how it might help ease your anxiety here at Hearthside Dentistry. 

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a sedative that is mixed with oxygen and administered through a mask that covers the nose to help patients feel calm and relaxed during their procedure. Nitrous oxide is delivered in a steady stream to the patient throughout their treatment.

What are the benefits of nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is one of the most commonly used forms of sedation dentistry because it is safe and effective at providing patients with the instant relaxation they need. The other benefit of nitrous oxide is that the effects wear off almost as soon as the mask is removed from the nose. Since nitrous oxide does not put you to sleep and effects do not linger, this also means that patients can often drive themselves home after their appointment.

Who can benefit from nitrous oxide?

You may be surprised to discover that nitrous oxide and sedation dentistry in general, is safe and effective for patients of all ages. Our Thornton, CO, dental team has provided everyone from children to seniors with sedation dentistry to make their dental appointments easier. While we often administer sedation dentistry to nervous patients, this isn’t the only reason to consider sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry may help a squirming and stressed child sit still so they can get the dental work they require in a timely and more efficient manner. It can help make you feel more comfortable if you experience pain when sitting in one position for an extended period of time. It’s also great if you have a sensitive gag reflex that has you gagging during your dental visits. It can also help those with special needs feel more comfortable and at ease.

If you feel nervous in the dentist’s chair and it’s keeping you from getting the treatment your smile needs, then it’s time to talk to our Thornton, CO, dentist Dr. McMillon and her team about how sedation dentistry could help. To learn more about sedation dentistry, call Hearthside Dentistry at (303) 280-2285.