Nitrous Oxide Delivery System

How is nitrous oxide administered?

Nitrous oxide is administered to patients through a nitrous oxide delivery system.

A nitrous oxide delivery system is a system of tanks and cylinders, either fixed or mobile, designed to deliver a specific amount of nitrous oxide gas (also known as laughing gas) in combination with oxygen to sedate patients for dental procedures. The ratio of nitrous oxide to oxygen is controlled by a flowmeter.

What is nitrous oxide used for dentistry?

In dentistry, nitrous oxide is used to help patients relax and manage pain during minor oral surgical procedures.

What are nitrous oxide contraindications?

Nitrous oxide should not be used in certain situations. Here are some examples:

• Pregnant women
• Children younger than three
• Chronically immature and behaviorally immature children
• Latex allergy
• Any medical condition that causes nasal obstruction such as enlarged tonsils or the common cold
• Drug dependency
• Treatment using bleomycin sulfate

Major manufacturers of nitrous oxide systems include Accutron, Belmed, Midmark, and Porter.

Learn the benefits of dental nitrous oxide delivery systems for your practice.