Laughing Gas: Is It Right For You?

27 Apr Laughing Gas: Is It Right For You?

What do Kelly Osbourne, Robert DeNiro and Abraham Lincoln have in common? They all have dentophobia, a fear of the dentist. This is a very common concern for many people and can be eased a variety of ways, including laughing gas. Besides treating dental anxiety, it also helps stop people who are extreme gaggers. Trust me, that is not fun for the patient or the dentist.

Nitrous Oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is often used to relax people who have a severe fear of the dentist and it’s easier than making your dentist do 10 minutes of stand up comedy. No, it will not make you look like the Joker from Batman, but it will make any dental procedure much easier to handle.

Nitrous oxide kills pain and induces a pleasurable or euphoric feeling throughout your body. You may feel a little lightheaded and some people get “the giggles”, hence the name laughing gas! An interesting fact – laughing gas was one of the drugs of choice for young people in the late 1700s to the early 1800s, when laughing gas demonstrations were a popular source of entertainment. Don’t get the wrong idea, I’m not suggesting that you should bring this trend back.

Just like any other drug, there are side effects that you need to watch out for. Some people are more susceptible than others, like pregnant women or the elderly. Do some research and talk to your dentist to see if this is an option that is right for you. If so, lay back, relax and giggle your way through your next dental appointment.