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Inhalation sedation, relative analgesia or RA uses Nitrous Oxide ( laughing gas) to produce sedation.

Laughing gas was discovered by Humphery Davy in 1772. It has no colour, smell or causes no irritation.

• A mix of Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen in the ratio of 30:70 is used.
• Nitrous oxide reaches the brain within 20 seconds and relaxation and pain killing properties are seen in 2 -3 minutes.
• Depth of sedation can be adjusted by the operator from moment to moment.
• The duration of action can be appropriately controlled. Nitrous oxide is eliminated from the body within 3 -5 minutes after it is stopped.
• Inhalation sedation is very safe and has virtually no harmful effect on the heart, lung, liver, kidney or brain.

How does it work?

Nitrous oxide is delivered using an apparatus. It mixes nitrous oxide and oxygen in required amounts and supplies it to the patient using canula and tubes with mask attached to it. The mask is placed on the patient’s nose. Patient inhales the gas. Modern machines have a double layer of mask with the outer layer being vacuum suctioned. This prevents any spillage of the gas.

Side effects:

Over sedation or increased nitrous oxide in the mix can lead to auditory problems, hallucination, dizziness and vertigo.It can also lead to nausea. To prevent nausea, it is advised to eat 4 hours before the procedure. Also if such unpleasant experiences surface, the patient should immediately tell the dentist or rip off the mask.

Inhalation sedation dentistry is safe and very efficient. Requirement of equipments, space and special training for the dentist and his staff makes it less popular buts its safety is a great advantage.