Does Laughing Gas Make You Say Things?

When it comes to dental interventions, people often get scared or anxious. Luckily, there are many methods and solutions to nervousness, fear, and anxiety related to going to the dentist. 

One of the methods used by dentists is laughing gas.

But, if you've seen any movie, you may be wondering if laughing gas will make you giggle or start saying things. 

Here's the truth. 

What Is Laughing Gas?

You’ve probably heard of it, but you might not know exactly what it is. Laughing gas is a mild sedative that helps patients manage their anxiety during dental procedures. This colorless and odorless gas is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. 

This gas relaxes your nervous system without putting you to sleep. You will be conscious and aware of your environment the entire time the gas is in your body.

You can feel light-headed, with heavy arms and legs, but this should mostly make you feel relaxed during the procedure. 

Some might think that laughing gas makes you laugh, but that is not really the case. You might feel mildly euphoric but also able to respond to anything your dentist tells you.

Can Laughing Gas Make You Say Things You Can’t Control?

Another belief about laughing gas is that you will start saying things, like secrets, while under the effect of the sedative.

This scenario is very unlikely to happen. What you can feel is a bit more uninhibited yet not in a way that you would start behaving inappropriately. You might feel confused or amused, but not in a way you start confessing to your dentist all your secrets.  

Your dentist will measure the correct dosage of laughing gas, enough to help you relax, but that does not mean you lose control over your ability to think or behave. 

Of course, each person reacts in their own specific way, but laughing gas is very safe to use and the side effects that you might feel go away shortly after you stop inhaling it.

If you have any doubts, you can always talk to your dentist about them.

Relaxed Dentistry at Academy Dental Care 

If you are looking for a compassionate dentist who can offer dental services in a warm and comfortable atmosphere, then we encourage you to get in touch with us. We offer sedation dentistry and can help you calm your nerves and anxiety and get the treatment you need to maintain your total health. 

At Academy Dental Care, we offer family dentistry to patients in St. Mary’s County and southern Maryland. We strive to make each appointment relaxing, worry-free, and highly informative. Whether your kid needs their first checkup, or you’re looking to improve your smile, we can help. 

Get in touch with us and schedule an appointment, we are happy to meet new people.

Back to the blog

Visit Us in St. Mary’s County