Is Laughing Gas Safe?
If dental anxiety is keeping you from getting the care you need, you may be surprised to learn that laughing gas could be the answer to much-needed relief during treatment. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, laughing gas is a safe and effective way to manage pain and anxiety in dentistry.
Learn more from the caring experts at Perry Smiles, including the answers to frequently asked questions.
What is Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas is nitrous oxide (N2O); a prescription medicine that helps ease pain and anxiety by slowing down your nervous system. Often combined with oxygen (O2) for sedation dentistry, it allows you to remain awake—but deeply relaxed—as your dental team works on your teeth.
While its effects vary from person to person, laughing gas is named for the way it makes most people feel giggly. It can also make you feel:
- Groggy
- Happy
- Relaxed
- Slightly euphoric
The process is quite simple: You breathe in laughing gas through a nosepiece or mask. It works quickly, kicking in about three to five minutes after you first breathe it in. It also stops acting quickly, leaving your system about five to 10 minutes after the gas flow stops.
Is Laughing Gas Safe for Children?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says that laughing gas is safe and effective when used appropriately in children older than three years. Laughing gas for kids at the dentist can have many positive effects, including allowing the dentist to conduct cleanings and procedures with ease.
Who Shouldn’t Use Laughing Gas?
One of the reasons laughing gas is popular is because it’s safe and effective for most people. However, it’s not right for everyone.
People who shouldn’t use laughing gas include people who:
- Are younger than three years
- Are in the first trimester of pregnancy
- Have a history of substance abuse
- Have a stuffy nose
- Have a vitamin B12 deficiency
- Have certain respiratory or mental health conditions
You and your dentist will determine if laughing gas is right for you after a consultation and review of your personal and family health history.
What are the Risks of Laughing Gas?
If you use laughing gas often, you may increase your risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. That’s why some dentists recommend a B12 supplement for their patients. But most people don’t experience any side effects of laughing gas.
Those who do encounter side effects may experience:
- Headache
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Laughing gas is risky when used recreationally. Only a dentist or trained health professional should administer laughing gas.
What are the Benefits of Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas is fast-acting and short-lived, so if you do experience side effects, they often pass once the laughing gas is out of your system. One of the most significant benefits of laughing gas, though, is the number of patients who agree to treatment, knowing they will feel calm and relaxed throughout their procedure. Delayed dental treatment isn’t ideal because it can lead to damaged teeth and gums.
Want to Know If You Qualify for Laughing Gas?
Contact Perry Smiles today. Our kind and reliable team is well-trained in laughing gas administration and is eager to give you options to make your visit as calm and easy as possible.
