Nitrous oxide in dental surgery

This chapter will focus on the use of nitrous oxide–oxygen inhalational sedation with dental treatment or oral surgery procedures. Desirable properties for sedation systems in dentistry will be listed, the rationale and background for inhalational sedation related to dental treatment will be commented upon, with the emphasis being on several investigations that have shown superior effects of nitrous oxide–oxygen sedation compared to other methods. Both general and local indications as well as contra-indications/cautions for the use of nitrous oxide–oxygen sedation in the dental surgery setting will be presented. A review of the clinical setting and procedures, including clinical and subjective signs of the correct level of sedation, will be presented, as well as definitions and data for acceptance and side effects. Occupational hazards of the use of nitrous oxide–oxygen sedation in dental surgeries will be evaluated, and recommendations for minimizing the risks of chronic exposure to nitrous oxide for the health care personnel involved will be presented, with suggestions for further research priorities.