Nitrous Oxide

Relaxed woman in dental chairNitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe. Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide. The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

There Are Many Advantages To Using Nitrous Oxide

  • The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
  • There is no after effect such as a “hangover”.
  • Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
  • Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
  • It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Reasons To Not Use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your endodontist for a “5 minute trial” to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.

Conscious Sedation

Some people have put off having a Root Canal due to excessive fear and dental anxiety. At Northwest endodontics, we understand your fears and concerns that is why our doctors and team team have gone the extra mile to offer you Conscious Sedation. Patient comfort is our primary concern.

Conscious Sedation is todays preferred method among leading-edge dental practices. It not only minimizes the anxiety typically associated with a visit to your dentist, but combined with our advanced methods in local anesthesia, our patients also enjoy an overall more comfortable, relaxing, safer, and pain-free experience.

How does Conscious Sedation Work?

At Northwest endodontics, we start by scheduling a consultation appointment where we review your medical history. We gather information regarding your health and discuss with you your wants and desires.

We’ll give you a prescription for a sedative to take the night before your first appointment to guarantee a good night’s sleep and to make sure you wake up relaxed.

You will also take another pill one hour before your appointment. Your escort will bring you to the office. Additional medications or nitrous oxide may be provided to create ultimate relaxation. Our experienced sedation team will monitor you throughout your entire visit.

At the completion of your visit, your escort will take you back home and stay with you until you completely recover from the sedation medication. After your visit, you will find that you won’t remember very much, even though you will feel fine.

Who is a candidate for Conscious Sedation?

Adults who:

  • Have a high degree of fear of having dental treatment
  • Hate needles
  • Have a difficult time getting numb or gag easily
  • Need to have their treatment completed in as few appointments as possible
  • Just don’t like coming to the dentist
  • Hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care
  • Have disabilities that preclude them from receiving traditional dental services

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have a needle in my arm to be sedated?

No. This is not IV-Sedation

Will I be unconscious?

No, but you will be sedated and be very relaxed. You will still be responsive.

Will I feel pain?

No, you will feel nothing.

Will you need to use shots to deaden my mouth?

Yes, however, today with some of the technology we have available, such as the Electronic Comfort Syringe, you will not feel any pain at all.

Will someone need to accompany me?

Yes, due to the sedative effects of the medication, you must have someone drive you to and from this office.

 We are member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation.