Nitrous oxide‐oxygen sedation in dental care

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Abstract
Dental treatments under N2O/O2 sedation carried out during 1 yr by the first 45 Swedish dentists trained at probationary courses in the use of the technique were evaluated. Special emphasis was placed on evaluating the risk and incidence of side effects. Data from 1719 treatment sessions in 823 patients, mainly children, were analyzed. Standardized sedation technique was used, and the maximum level of N2O administered was set at 60%. Of the patients, .apprx. 90% showed excellent or fair acceptance. Factors influencing the acceptance were the patient''s age, history of psychiatric disorders, mental retardation and occurrence of side effects. In 4.5% of the treatment sessions the patient experienced side effects, e.g., restlessness, vomiting or nausea, during treatment and in 0.9% after the treatment session. The side effects were mainly mild. No correlation was found between side effects and the N2O concentration used, length of treatment, patient''s age or health classification. N2O/O2 sedation is apparently an excellent and safe aid to dental care.