why does laughing gas make you laugh
Hi there, you think is there any gas that makes people laugh? Today in this article on Solsarin we are going to answer the question “why does laughing gas make you laugh“, so stay with us. Thanks for being with us.
Will Laughing Gas Really Make You Laugh?
Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is a type of sedative used by dentists to provide more ease to patients about undergoing necessary procedures. That is because, despite the improvements in dental care, many people still find themselves anxious and fearful about scheduling an appointment. But, with the help of sedation options like laughing gas, anyone can get the oral care they need and deserve.
The question is, does the service justify its name? Does the gas really make patients laugh during a procedure? Let us at Lush Family Dental clear things out about laughing gas to make everyone feel at ease of taking advantage of the said service for their future visits.
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But first things first. What actually is laughing gas? It is a type of sedative in the form of a gas to make patients relax and feel comfortable during dental procedures. Dentists offer laughing gas to patients who find oral care services frightful and anxiety-inducing. Although fear is normal and common, it can sometimes be too much that a patient would instead choose to perform self-care. There may be medications readily available to alleviate pain, but keeping the oral health in shape should not be like this. The assistance of a dental professional should be sought to get the correct diagnosis of issues and the necessary treatments.
Once inhaled, nitrous oxide creates a euphoric feeling; thus, led Humphry Davy to give it the name of “laughing gas.” The primary effect of the said gas is to make patients feel calm and less aware of what is happening around them. Most people who avail of the sedation option report feeling drowsy and relaxed which made their experience more pleasant.
Although laughing gas does not literally make patients laugh, it can make their dental visits less stressful. As a result, they no longer have to avoid necessary treatments as recommended by the dentist since there is a guarantee that their treatment would go as smoothly as possible.
Does nitrous oxide or laughing gas really make you laugh?
Nitrous oxide (sometimes called “laughing gas”) can create a feeling of euphoria, which may make you laugh easier, but its primary effect is to relax you and leave you calm and less aware of any fear or anxiety you may feel during dental procedures. Most people report an enjoyable feeling of drowsiness and relaxation, making their dental visits more pleasurable and less stressful.
Nitrous oxide is a quite safe sedation technique, and our office is trained and experienced in administrating it in the correct dosage to ensure the proper calming effect. We will monitor your status during the administration of the nitrous and during your procedure, so you can relax and enjoy a painless and low-stress dental visit. If you do laugh a little, that’s okay too!
If you are sensitive to nitrous oxide or have had a bad reaction in the past, make sure to let us know. We have other sedation options available. There’s no need to have an uncomfortable, fearful dental experience with our office! We take every step to ensure you are relaxed and comfortable from massage chairs and a gentle touch to nitrous oxide and oral sedation.
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of fear or anxiety, call us today. We’ll be happy to discuss sedation options and answer any questions you may have. Let us work together to remove your dental fears!
Laughing Gas In Dentistry
“Relax, take deep breaths and count back from 100,” is something your dentist may have told you before undergoing a complex dental procedure. You’ve been informed that you will be inhaling laughing gas, but oral surgery is no laughing matter – so where does the name come from?
Dentists use laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide or just nitrous, to mildly sedate patients during more complex dental procedures, such as drilling or surgery. Laughing gas leaves the patient conscious, but dulls their pain and awareness. Its name comes from the calming effect that it has on the mind and body, sometimes causing a euphoric or giddy feeling that can even bring on a laughing fit.
Laughing gas is not only an easy alternative to full sedation, it’s also extremely safe, even for children and pregnant women. The only people advised to pass on laughing gas are those with phobias or disabilities that prevent them from breathing through a mask; people with psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia; people who are sensitive to nitrous oxide and people who suffer from emphysema or other lung conditions.
Modern dental procedures are performed with the patients’ comfort and best interest in mind. Laughing gas is just another way your dentist is working to make your visit as comfortable and pain-free as possible!
The Benefits of Laughing Gas
Dentists choose nitrous oxide because it is a safe and effective method for sedation. The laughing gas works quickly to relax patients, and the effects wear off quickly by breathing pure oxygen through a mask. Plus, the nitrous oxide does not put you to sleep, so you can hear and respond to any of the dentist’s questions or instructions.
The Side Effects of Laughing Gas
Most patients do not experience adverse reactions to laughing gas. However, they can occur if the nitrous oxide levels rise too high or if the amount being inhaled quickly changes. The California Dental Association (CDA) lists several side effects, including:
- Headaches
- Shivering
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sleepiness
After the nitrous oxide is turned off, patients need to receive oxygen for at least five minutes to avoid headaches. The oxygen purges the remaining gas from the lungs while helping the patient become more alert and awake. Patients can also help prevent nausea or vomiting by eating lightly before the procedure and avoiding a big meal for up to three hours afterward. Consult your dentist on whether or not it is safe to drive post-procedure.
What is Laughing Gas Used For?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the use of nitrous oxide for these indications:
- Patients who are fearful, anxious, or uncooperative
- And patients with special health care needs
- Also patients with gag reflexes that interfere with dental care
- And patients who do not respond adequately to local anesthesia
- Younger patients who must undergo lengthy dental procedures
Nitrous Oxide for Children
Is nitrous oxide equally safe for children? The AAPD states that laughing gas is considered generally acceptable to children and tan be titrated easily. Many children show enthusiasm for using the gas and report feeling a tingling or warming sensation. The laughing gas can help expedite procedures that are not particularly uncomfortable but require the child not to move for extended periods. However, some children may experience nausea or have difficulty wearing the mask. Discuss options for sedation with your child’s dentist when planning dental treatment.
Who Shouldn’t Use Laughing Gas?
While nitrous oxide is considered a safe and effective sedative, it might not be the right choice for you. The AAPD lists several risk factors for using laughing gas. Tell your dentist if you have any of the following conditions:
- currently in the first trimester of pregnancy
- a history of respiratory illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- a vitamin B-12 deficiency
- a history of substance abuse
- an enzyme condition methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency
- a history of mental health conditions
Laughing gas can be a useful tool for easing anxiety and pain during dental procedures. If you think you might benefit from using nitrous oxide for your next appointment or operation, talk to your dentist about available options.
