The query “why don’t dentists use nitrous oxide anymore” is based on a misconception. Dental professionals continue to utilize nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” as a safe and effective method for managing patient anxiety and pain during various procedures. It remains a common and valuable tool in modern dentistry. Concerns likely arise from perceived risks or changes in practice preferences, not from complete abandonment of the technique.
Nitrous oxide offers several benefits, including rapid onset and recovery, titratability (the ability to precisely control the level of sedation), and a relatively safe profile for most patients. Historically, it has been a cornerstone of anxiety management in dentistry. While alternative sedation methods exist, nitrous oxide’s ease of administration and favorable safety profile contribute to its continued relevance in dental practices.
