Controlling pain is integral to most dental procedures. Dental specialists have utilized various pain-reducing methods throughout history to maintain patient comfort and trust. Dating as far back as 2250 BC, solutions for pain management have evolved from herbal remedies and analgesics to nitrous oxide sedation dentistry that make invasive dental techniques possible.
When was nitrous oxide discovered?
Joseph Priestly discovered nitrous oxide in 1772, but it wasn’t used in dentistry for over 20 years. Initially, the product was used for entertainment because breathing it caused giddiness and laughter, and it became known as “laughing gas.”
Two years later, Humphry Daly suffered wisdom tooth pain and inhaled nitrous oxide to gain relief. In 1800 he recommended that the gas may be beneficial during surgery.
The first dentist to use nitrous oxide was Horace Wells, from Hartford, Connecticut. He took advantage of the gas when he extracted his own tooth in 1844. He noted that he had reduced pain and the process was easier to complete. However, when he demonstrated nitrous oxide use at Massachusetts General Hospital, he used too little nitrous oxide, and the patient complained of pain. Twenty more years passed before it was used again in dental applications.
Nitrous oxide sedation
For those who are anxious about dental procedures, nitrous oxide sedation can help them relax. It can be used for a simple dental cleaning to more invasive procedures. While some people call it “sleep dentistry,” patients are not actually sleeping, but feel calm and restful.
There are three different levels of nitrous oxide sedation:
Slight sedation involves breathing the gas and oxygen via a mask. The dentist controls the amount of sedation.
Moderate or conscious sedation is often delivered intravenously and can be adjusted as needed.
Deep sedation is often accomplished with a combination of nitrous oxide and other medications. The patient is almost or entirely unconscious during the dental procedure.
Who can benefit from nitrous oxide use at the dentist?
Individuals who have a low tolerance for pain, have sensitive teeth, an excessive gag reflex, are unable to remain still, or require extensive dental work are all excellent candidates for nitrous oxide use.
Conclusion
Early methods for reducing pain in dental procedures signify the advent of medical progress. Since oral health is a prime indicator of overall well-being, any step taken that can make it easier to receive necessary care is valuable. Patients who can effectively handle anxiety, fear, and pain are more likely to seek dental care they need.
The pioneers in dental medicine are responsible for the options we utilize now, and today’s research scientists continue to make advances in nitrous oxide dental sedation dentistry in Birmingham, MI. It’s exciting to think about what the future may hold for dental practice in the future.
