Even as you settle on sedation dentistry, you may struggle to pick a specific kind. The choice between laughing gas and oral conscious sedation is a good example. Since both options can help patients relax, which one should you get for yourself? You don’t need to worry over your sedative dilemma, though; your Arlington dentist can help you address it. As proof, here’s a primer on laughing gas, oral conscious sedation, and which of the two is right for you.
How Does “Laughing Gas” Work?
Laughing gas is the “traditional” dental sedative, so maybe you’ve already heard about it. Still, you’d do well to review the basic facts and details.
Also known as nitrous oxide, laughing gas is inhaled through a breathing mask worn over your nose. The drug takes effect almost immediately and promotes a sense of euphoria during treatment. In prompting this sensation, it keeps you calm while the dentist performs necessary dental work. You also don’t need to worry about lingering side effects; laughing gas quickly wears off once you stop inhaling it.
Because nitrous oxide is mild, it’s a preferred sedation option for many patients. Folks can typically trust it to work safely and effectively!
What About Oral Conscious Sedation?
Unlike laughing gas, oral conscious sedation doesn’t work via a breathing mask. The medicine it uses is also a bit more “intense.”
Oral conscious sedation involves administering a pill before treatment. This sedative “kicks in” right as your care starts, causing you to feel deeply calm and (sometimes) drowsy. It still leaves you conscious, though, so that you can respond to the dentist’s instructions. You’ll just feel a more powerful form of relaxation than what laughing gas provides, which will persist for several hours after your procedure.
Due to its (relatively) heavy effects, oral conscious sedation isn’t for everyone. You should only commit to it after thinking long and hard.
Which Option Should You Get?
Neither laughing gas nor oral sedation is “better” than the other. All in all, which one you should get will depend on your situation.
You’ll want to consider your preferences and needs as you make the choice. For instance, it’s a good idea to pick laughing gas when your anxiety is mild, and you don’t desire lingering effects. Oral conscious sedation, meanwhile, may suit you better if your fears are intense and your procedure is long.
Even with the above, consult your dental provider before you commit to laughing gas or oral conscious sedation. They’ll ensure your chosen sedative is the one that helps you most!
About the Practice
Foundation Dental Solutions is based in Arlington, TX. Led by Dr. Douglas Baldwin, our practice truly believes in meeting you (and your smile) where you are. We thus personalize our preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, ensuring they address your unique oral issues. This approach delivers the ideal results for your grin, and it makes each appointment transformative! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (817)-478-4300.