If you’ve had problems with past dental procedures, you’re not alone. Different pain sensitivities and thresholds, previous unpleasant dental treatments, or medical conditions can all cause fear or anxiety for a patient, and impact the effectiveness and duration of pain medications. If you’re nervous about your next dental appointment, Dr. Lane understands and wants to help.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide mask worn on the nose.
For mild to moderate anxiety, nitrous oxide gas works well. It decreases the level of anxiety enough for the local anesthetic to work and the treatment to be comfortable. The gas is breathed through a mask placed over your nose. The dentist usually starts out with a low concentration and then gradually increases it. The patient can increase its effect by breathing more deeply, or lessen the effect by breathing more through the mouth. This gas works well for people who have trouble getting numb. There is no lingering effect, and patients can return to normal activities within minutes of the gas being turned off.
If you’re interested in a positive dental experience, contact our office or request an appointment.