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Q: What is nitrous oxide?
A: Nitrous oxide is a colorless, nonflammable, sweet-smelling and sweet-tasting gas commonly used by dentists as an anesthetic. Nitrous oxide is one of the dentist's tools for relaxing a patient and easing anxiety. The gas is actually a compound of nitrogen and oxygen and is inhaled through a partial mask. It creates a feeling of giddiness or euphoria. Nitrous oxide is a form of conscious sedation, meaning that the patient is not asleep, but is conscious and capable of responding to instruction from the dentist. If there is discomfort during the treatment, the effects of nitrous oxide make the discomfort more bearable and can even make time seem as though it passes more quickly.
For some procedures the dentist may use a topical anesthetic which is applied to the gums or other soft tissue with a cotton swab, or a local anesthetic, such as a shot of Novocaine. For certain other procedures, the dentist may recommend general anesthesia, which will render you temporarily unconscious. Dentists routinely administer various types of anesthesia to millions of patients. Talk with your dentist about the types of anesthesia that are available to you and don't hesitate to ask questions.
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