Nitrous Oxide

WHAT IS NITROUS OXIDE?

If you have been avoiding dental appointments due to your fear of the dentist, you’re likely a good fit for nitrous oxide sedation at R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. Our practice in Colorado Springs, CO offers nitrous oxide sedation for long, complex procedures and as requested to help comfort patients who have dental fears and anxieties during normal checkups and exams. Nitrous oxide (N2O) gas is a simple sedation technique that helps you safely relax during your dental visit. Commonly called laughing gas, nitrous oxide sedation is offered by Dr. Asher Henegar to keep you awake while being completely relaxed so he can safely and successfully complete your appointment. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Henegar to learn more about nitrous oxide and other sedation options during your appointment.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM NITROUS OXIDE

Nitrous oxide is a very popular sedation technique that is safe for children and adults alike. Prior to approving the use of nitrous oxide, Dr. Henegar will assess your current medications, medical history, and concerns to ensure nitrous oxide gas is a good choice for you. It might not be right for you if you have extreme phobias, trouble breathing through your nose, have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other similar conditions. As you take in the gas through a nasal hood, it will quickly relax you. Your response to the gas, as well as your vitals, will be monitored and adjusted as needed during the appointment so you remain safely relaxed. You could notice a tingling sensation in your outer extremities, as well as a feeling of warmth, vibration, and euphoria as the N2O takes effect. Nitrous oxide is normally used upon request along with a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, to deaden sensation. After your procedure is complete, the gas is turned off and the effects should quickly wear off. You should be able to drive and return to your normal activities when you leave our office. Side effects are uncommon, but you could experience headaches, chills, sweating, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue. To reduce the chance of nausea and vomiting, Dr. Henegar suggests you eat a small meal or light snack prior to your appointment and then wait about three hours after you leave before eating a large meal.

NITROUS OXIDE FAQ

Is nitrous oxide safe?

Yes, it is. Nitrous oxide sedation has been safely used for more than 100 years to calm patients’ anxiety during dental procedures. The risk for side effects with nitrous oxide sedation is very low. During your procedure and while using nitrous oxide, Dr. Henegar will constantly monitor you to ensure absolute safety and make sure you are comfortable.

Does nitrous oxide sedation put you to sleep?

No, it doesn’t. Some patients may fall asleep while under nitrous oxide sedation, but it’s a result of feeling relaxed, not the nitrous oxide itself.

Will I still feel pain with nitrous oxide sedation?

Nitrous oxide sedation can somewhat dull sensitivity to pain, as it isn’t an anesthetic. Any possible pain or discomfort during a procedure is controlled with a local anesthetic. Nitrous oxide sedation is just to calm any fear or anxiety you may have during a dental procedure.

How long does nitrous oxide sedation last?

After your procedure is finished and the nitrous oxide nasal mask is removed, the effects will go away within minutes. You will be able to drive yourself home and return to your normal schedule almost immediately.

EASE YOUR DENTAL FEARS

If you avoid regular dental appointments or you’re dealing with oral discomfort because of fear of the dentist, please consider scheduling a consultation with skilled and friendly dentist Dr. Asher Henegar for more information about nitrous oxide sedation at our practice in Colorado Springs, CO. Dr. Henegar and his experienced team will be happy to answer your questions and ease your concerns about sedation at R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. If you carry dental insurance, our team will call your carrier to understand your benefits as it pertains to nitrous oxide sedation and calculate your expected costs before your procedure. If you don’t carry dental insurance, we take a variety of payments, including medical financing, to help make your procedure more affordable.