What Does Laughing Gas Feel Like?

When Humphry Davy discovered the laughing gas in 1799, he had no idea that the gas would become a staple for dentists worldwide centuries later.

Laughing gas, scientifically known as nitrous oxide, is a colorless, odorless gas primarily used as a sedative in dental procedures. When inhaled, it produces feelings of euphoria and a sense of relaxation. It may also cause tingling or numbness in the extremities and lightheadedness. But what exactly does laughing gas feel like, and how do sedation dentists in Terre Haute use it? Well, keep reading to find out.

What Does Laughing Gas Feel Like?

Inhaling laughing gas makes you happy and lightheaded. Most people describe it as feeling relaxed and euphoric, with a slight tingling sensation. Sometimes the happy feeling can make you laugh; hence the name "laughing gas."

Patients start to feel the effects of laughing gas a few seconds after inhaling it. The euphoria distracts them from the pain of minor surgical procedures like tooth fillings and root canals.

How Do Dentists Administer Laughing Gas?

Dentists administer laughing gas using a face mask. The patient breathes in the mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through the face mask for about five to 10 minutes. The effects kick in within seconds of inhaling the gas, and dentists can begin their procedure.

Dentists recommend laughing gas for the following people:

• Patients anxious and fearful about dental procedures
• Patients resistant to certain anesthetics
• Patients resistant to certain anesthesia
• Patients with gag reflexes
• Patients with special healthcare needs

What Are the Benefits of Laughing Gas for Dental Procedures?

The dental community has widely adopted laughing gas for use in conjunction with local anesthesia. Here are a few benefits of laughing gas:

• Relieves patient anxiety: Approximately 36% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety. Laughing gas relieves this anxiety, so patients are more comfortable with their dental procedures.
• Safe for all ages: Dentists can use laughing gas across the board, regardless of the patient's age. This makes it an excellent option for pediatric dentists who work with children.
• Wears off quickly: The effects of laughing gas wear off quickly after the procedure. It only takes about 3 to 5 minutes for it to wear off completely.

Laughing Gas for Seamless Dental Procedures

It's hard to understate the impact of laughing gas on the dental community. This perfectly safe sedative is the reason for countless successful dental procedures and happy patients across the divide. It's extremely useful for people with dental anxiety and special healthcare needs.

Contact Vivid Smiles®!

If you're considering a cosmetic dental procedure or are looking for a solution to any other oral problems, Vivid Smiles® is the right team for the job. Our experienced team only uses the procedures recommended on official levels, including laughing gas when it's necessary. Contact us today! We are here to listen and help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.