Patients who face anxiety during dental procedures often turn to nitrous oxide to help calm nerves and ease discomfort. It helps them feel calm and relaxed and is often called ‘laughing gas.’ While nitrous oxide is generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of potential nitrous oxide side effects, though most are mild and manageable.
In this blog, we will explain the top 5 most common side effects of nitrous oxide and share practical tips to handle them. In the end, you will feel more prepared and informed for your next dental visit.
What Can Laughing Gas Do?
Nitrous Oxide slows your nervous system down and gives you a high feeling. It decreases anxiety and eases relief in medical or dental procedures. It does not make you totally unconscious so you are not completely asleep, you can respond to your provider’s questions and instructions.
Yet its name is ‘laughing gas’ even though it may not make you laugh. It varies from person to person.
Nitrous oxide affects patients quickly. Within 3 to 5 minutes, you may feel;
- Relaxed.
- Giggly.
- Happy
- Light-headed.
- Mildly euphoric.
- Tingling in your legs and arms.
Heaviness like you are sinking deeper into the table or the exam chair.
Common Dental Nitrous Oxide Side Effects
1. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is one of the most common side effects of nitrous oxide. It happens due to the effect of nitrous oxide on the oxygen levels in your blood. It may seem scary, but it is usually nothing to be worried about and typically goes away on its own after the gas stops.
How to Manage It?
- After the procedure, take slow, deep breaths. It helps your body balance its oxygen levels faster
- Do not stand up too quickly after your appointment. However, for a minute or two, sit still to let your body adjust.
- If you do not feel better in a couple of minutes, tell your dentist right away.
2. Nausea or Vomiting
Patients who have a sensitive stomach may be at risk of another side effect, nausea. If you have eaten too much or too little beforehand, this can happen. It can also happen, though not usually.
How to Manage It?
- Eat a light meal a few hours before your appointment so you won’t feel queasy. Avoid heavy, greasy, or sugary foods.
- Sip water slowly after your procedure to rehydrate and settle your stomach.
- Over the counter anti nausea medications can help if your nausea continues, as long as your dentist has agreed you can.
3. Fatigue or Grogginess
However, people often get sleepy or groggy, particularly if they have a longer procedure. Afterward, you will feel a bit tired as nitrous oxide relaxes your body. But this works for only a short while before you feel normal again within an hour or so.
How to Manage It?
- Take a little time to relax after your dental visit. Until you are feeling alert again, do not do anything that will require full alertness, such as driving or working with heavy machinery.
- Drink some water or a refreshing drink to refresh your senses.
- If fatigue lingers for an extended time, you must tell your dentist.
4. Headaches
Some mild headaches are a possibility in some people after using nitrous oxide, and not so common. It happens only when the gas is not mixed properly with oxygen or if you take too long to inhale it.
How to Manage It?
- Once the procedure is over, breathe in fresh air to clear any remaining nitrous oxide from your system.
- Some of the headaches can be related to dehydration, so drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
- If your dentist approves, you can use pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to ease the discomfort.
5. Tingling Sensations or Shivering
Tingling sensations in your hands or feet and occasional shivering can happen because nitrous oxide affects your nervous system. This might feel strange, but it is usually harmless and resolves quickly once the gas is stopped.
How to Manage It?
- Let your dentist know if you start feeling tingling or shivering during the procedure. They can adjust the gas levels or pause for a moment.
- After your procedure, keep a light blanket handy if you feel chilly. Staying warm can help reduce shivering.
- Gentle stretching or moving your fingers and toes can ease tingling sensations.
Are These Long-Term Nitrous Oxide Side Effects?
In general, nitrous oxide is considered very safe when administered properly by a professional. Long-term side effects are extremely rare and typically only occur with prolonged or excessive use. Your dentist monitors the dosage carefully to ensure your safety during each visit.
Any Tips for a Comfortable Experience?
If you are feeling nervous about using nitrous oxide, here are a few tips to make your experience more comfortable:
- Communicate with Your Dentist
- Follow Pre-Appointment Instructions
- Relax and Breathe Normally
- Bring a Friend
When to Call Your Dentist?
While nitrous oxide is very safe, you should contact your dentist when you face:
- Severe or prolonged dizziness, nausea, or headaches.
- Persistent shivering or tingling that doesn’t go away.
- Any unusual symptoms that seem out of the ordinary.
Why Choose Smile Cove?
You do not always have to live with health-related anxiety. If used properly, this gas is one of the most effective, safest, short-acting sedatives. Their proper usage is possible only when you have a trusted dentist by your side. You will be happy to know that Smile Cove has a large collection of expert dentists. So, you must ask your healthcare provider if nitrous oxide is an option for you.
Final Thoughts!
To sum up, nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, can make dental visits much easier, especially if you are nervous about dental work. While mild side effects like dizziness, nausea, or headaches can happen, they do not last long and are easy to manage.
With proper care, you can feel calm and comfortable during your treatment. So, next time your dentist mentions laughing gas, you will know what to expect and how to handle it. Always share your concerns and ask questions because your comfort and safety matter most.