Is Laughing Gas Funny?

Laughing gas is well known in the dental community for its ability to prevent pain during invasive procedures, but how exactly did it come to be known as laughing gas, and how does it work its magic?

How Does Laughing Gas Work?

More formally known as inhalation sedation with Nitrous oxide (N2O), laughing gas is a safe sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask. It’s colorless and odorless, but when inhaled it generates a calming effect that numbs the pain of a medical procedure.

Unlike other gases used during major surgeries, laughing gas isn’t intended to put the patient to sleep. It simply makes the patient more comfortable. Since communication between dentist and patient can still occur, laughing gas is considered the ultimate sedative circumstance.

How Laughing Gas Got Its Name

Within a few minutes of inhaling it, nitrous oxide creates warm sensations and an overall feeling of happiness and euphoria. Many people even giggle at the feeling, which is how “Laughing Gas” became an identified term for this gas.

Laughing Gas does have other side effects. Many people note that their arms and legs tingle and feel very heavy, while others report a bit of light-headedness. Interestingly, it’s still not fully understood why N2O works the way it does. It’s believed that the gas inhibits all forms of sensation by debilitating certain brain centers, while still fully maintaining concentration, memory, and intellectual performance.

Common Uses of Laughing Gas

Laughing Gas is an anxious dental patient’s best friend. Root canals and tooth extractions can be both painful and stressful, so dentists like using it to calm patients down and ensure no discomfort occurs. Since communication can still occur under the influence of nitrous oxide, it’s also a safe alternative.

Laughing Gas has no hangover effect; without three minutes after the gas is cut off, the patient returns to normal and can even get in the car to drive home. Depth of sedation can be adjusted based on the persona and the procedure, and it can even minimize gagging during tough procedures.