Laughing gas saved my sanity during my root canal

Honestly, I kind of question whether nitrous is worth the extra charge. I felt groggy for hours, even though I followed all my dentist’s “eat and hydrate” advice. For the price, maybe just toughing it out with local numbing is better…

I get what you mean about the grogginess.

I felt groggy for hours, even though I followed all my dentist’s “eat and hydrate” advice.

I wonder if it’s something to do with metabolism or just personal sensitivity.

Yep, everyone’s a little different—some folks bounce back fast, others feel foggy for hours. Metabolism and even anxiety levels can play a part. I’ve seen people swear by nitrous, while others prefer just the numbing. Personally, I’d pick laughing gas for anything longer than a quick filling... way less tense.

Personally, I’d pick laughing gas for anything longer than a quick filling... way less tense.

Not gonna lie, nitrous has its fans—but have you ever tried just the local and a podcast? Some of my patients swear the distraction is enough, and they’re totally alert after. Plus, with nitrous, you sometimes get that “hangover” feeling (and I’ve seen folks get giggly at the worst moments). I’m not saying skip it if you’re anxious, but for quick stuff or if you hate that floaty sensation, local can be the way to go.

Also, sensitivity isn’t always about metabolism. Sometimes it’s just how your body reacts that day—had one guy who was fine with gas one visit and nauseous the next. Our brains are weird like that. Ever had a day where nothing seems to work right? That happens in the dental chair too.

Our brains are weird like that. Ever had a day where nothing seems to work right? That happens in the dental chair too.

Seriously, this is so true. I once went in for a whitening session and thought I’d be fine with just local—brought my favorite true crime podcast, figured I’d zone out. Nope. Every little buzz felt like it was echoing through my skull. Ended up more tense than if I’d just gone with the gas.

But then, on another day, I sat through a crown prep with only local and barely noticed a thing. It’s wild how unpredictable it can be. Sometimes you’re chill, sometimes your nerves just aren’t having it.

I do get the appeal of nitrous, though—especially for longer stuff. It’s like hitting the “mute” button on dental anxiety. But I’ve definitely had friends say it made them feel weird after, or kind of loopy. Guess it really is a “try it and see” thing for each person.

Dental roulette, basically...