
Aug
Dental anxiety can keep you from getting care that keeps your smile healthy. At Aztec Family Dental Care, Dr. James Durfey understands how fear and dental phobias affect his patients. Fortunately, sedation dentistry has helped many people relax in the dental chair and finally breathe easy. Nitrous oxide may be just what you need to feel comfortable about your next visit.
Nitrous oxide is a gas that has been used for decades to relieve anxiety in the dentist’s chair. Patients breathe the gas in through a mask placed on their noses. Within minutes, they feel relaxed and light. It keeps them calm while letting them stay awake the whole time.
Most patients can use nitrous oxide safely. Our team monitors you closely to keep you safe from start to finish. However, people with certain breathing conditions may not be able to use nitrous oxide. Also, women in the first trimester of pregnancy may need another option. It’s important to talk with Dr. Durfey to see what’s right for you.
Unlike other sedation methods, nitrous oxide wears off quickly. Once the team stops the gas and gives you oxygen, you’ll feel normal again within minutes. That means you can drive yourself home.
Nitrous oxide sedation has benefits that other options can’t match. Oral sedation takes longer to wear off and also longer to take effect. General anesthesia with an IV makes you fully unconscious. With nitrous oxide, recovery is almost instant. Patients who need to return to work or pick up kids afterward often choose it.
When you sit down in the dentist’s chair, the team explains the process to ease your nerves. Then, they place a small mask over your nose and instruct you to breathe normally. Within minutes, you’ll feel relaxed and calm. With nitrous oxide sedation:
After the treatment, oxygen is used to quickly clear the sedation. You’ll be ready to head home feeling comfortable. The team is there every step of the way to keep you safe and cared for.
Nitrous oxide can help children feel calm during dental treatments. It’s gentle, safe, and effective for easing anxiety in kids. Dr. Durfey will discuss your child’s health history to make sure it’s a good choice. Many parents find that it helps kids build positive feelings about visiting the dentist.
If dental visits make you anxious, nitrous oxide might be the solution. Call Aztec Family Dental Care today at (505) 390-1117 to book an appointment with Dr. James Durfey. You can also visit the office at 503 S Main Ave, Aztec, NM 87410. Don’t let fear keep you away from a healthy smile. Find out how sedation dentistry can help you feel calm again.