Why You May Want to Consider Laughing Gas for your Next Trip to the Dentist

Here at Metro Dental, we constantly strive to help make all of our clients feel comfortable in our clinic. Unfortunately, according to Statistics Canada, nearly half of Canadians put off going to the dentist biannually because they feel afraid or anxious about the scraping, cleaning, and other procedures that are often a part preventive oral care. We feel that’s unacceptable. We want all Calgarians to feel comfortable and relaxed in our clinic, and that’s why we’ve decided to invest in laughing gas.

What is Laughing Gas?

Laughing Gas is a colourless and odourless gas made from oxygen and nitrogen, which both exist naturally in air. Known by its common name laughing gas, nitr0us 0xide has been used since 1844 by doctors and dentists to help make patients more comfortable. This was especially important in the past when other anaesthetics weren’t available. Patients who are interested in feeling more relaxed and comfortable during their visit to their Calgary dentist can wear a mask that supplies a mix of laughing gas and oxygen. The gas mixture may taste slightly metallic, and some patients feel tingling or heaviness in their limbs. However, all patients quickly become more relaxed and find their anxieties slip away. One of the best features of laughing gas is that patients stay awake throughout their procedure. They’re able to answer any questions and communicate any discomfort.

How Does it Help?

Many Calgarians struggle with going to the dentist. Some may suffer from a dental phobia or anxiety. Others find sitting still in the dental seat a challenge. Children in particular are vulnerable to being scared of having necessary dental work done, but nearly 15% of Canadian adults also report being afraid of dental procedures. Laughing gas can help these patients feel welcome at our Calgary dental clinic. We want all our patients to understand that dental phobias are very real and often debilitating, and that everyone deserves to have good oral health.

Do you struggle with a dental anxiety or phobia? Do you have a squirmy toddler who has developed a cavity? Laughing gas may be a solution for accessing necessary dental care without the stress. Contact Metro Dental today to learn more about how we strive to help you feel welcome and comfortable in our clinic.