Nervous Patients
Calm Care for Nervous Smiles: Your Comfort is Our Priority!
Did you know? According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), approximately 25% of Australian adults reported feeling moderate to high levels of dental anxiety.
For many individuals, visiting the dentist can evoke a sense of apprehension stemming from various factors. Firstly, there’s often a fear of pain or discomfort associated with dental procedures, whether it’s due to past experiences or the unknown nature of the treatment. The anticipation of potentially invasive procedures like root canals or extractions can also contribute to this unease. Additionally, the unfamiliar sounds and smells of the dental office can heighten anxiety levels, as can the perceived loss of control while lying in the dentist’s chair.
At Newport Family Dentist, whether you have a dental phobia or want to feel more relaxed during the procedure, we are able to provide sedation options not just for the big procedures but for the small ones also.
What is happy gas (nitrous oxide sedation)?
“Happy gas,” also known as nitrous oxide or laughing gas, is a common form of sedation used to help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures. It is administered through a small mask placed over your nose with the concentration adjusted by your dentist to achieved desired level of sedation. As the patient breathes in the gas, they typically start to feel a sense of relaxation and possibly mild euphoria. It’s important to note that nitrous oxide does not induce sleep; instead, it helps patients feel calmer and more at ease while remaining conscious and able to respond to instructions from the dentist.
One of the key advantages of nitrous oxide is its rapid onset and offset of action. It takes effect within minutes after inhalation and wears off quickly once the gas supply is stopped, allowing patients to resume normal activities without lingering sedative effects. Additionally, it is considered safe for both adults and children.