Conscious sedation in dentistry : Innovation and comfort for the patient
At Turó Park Clinics, we understand that visiting the dentist can cause anxiety, fear or discomfort for many patients. That’s why we now offer the option of conscious sedation with nitrous oxide (N₂O), a safe, effective, and minimally invasive technique that allows patients to undergo dental treatments in a relaxed state.
Thanks to state-of-the-art equipment like the Master Flux Smart from Tecno-Gaz, we ensure a comfortable experience for both adults and children.
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What is conscious sedation with nitrous oxide (N₂O) ?
Conscious sedation is a technique in which a controlled mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask. The patient remains awake but experiences a sense of calmness, with reduced pain perception and the ability to cooperate throughout the treatment.
Unlike general anesthesia, this technique does not require hospitalisation or a prolonged recovery period, and its effects wear off just a few minutes after the gas administration is stopped.
Benefits:
Significant reduction of fear and anxiety during dental treatment.
Improved patient cooperation, especially during longer procedures.
Safe technique, well tolerated by most patients.
Quick recovery: patients can resume their normal activities immediately.
Ideal for patients with hypersensitivity to pain or a strong gag reflex.
Advanced technology: Master Flux Smart by Tecno-Gaz
Turó Park Clinics is equipped with the Master Flux Smart system, one of the most advanced conscious sedation devices in Europe. This equipment is designed exclusively for medical and dental use, meeting the highest safety standards.
Key features of the system:
Digital screen with electronic control of gas mixture.
Age adapted masks with anti-reflux valves for maximum safety.
Continuous monitoring system for gas flow and patient status.
Closed circuit design to prevent leaks and ensure precise administration.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation vs. General Anesthesia : What's the difference?
Although both techniques are used to facilitate dental treatments, they offer very different experiences and levels of intervention.
Characteristic
Conscious sedation
General Anesthesia
State of the patient
Conscious, relaxed, and responsive
Unconscious, unresponsive to stimuli
Effect on pain
Reduces pain perception
Completely blocks pain
Recovery time
5-10 min after gas is stopped
May take several hours
Suitable for children
Yes
Only under medical evaluations
Patient interaction
Can speak and follow instructions
None
Side effects
Minimal
More likely
Level of medical intervention
Outpatient
Requieres hospital setting and anesthesiology team
In many cases, conscious sedation is used alongside local anesthesia to ensure a more relaxed experience, especially during long or complex treatments.
Does going to the dentist make you anxious?
At Turó Park Clinics, we offer you a safe and effective solution with conscious sedation.
Who is Conscious Sedation with N₂O Recommended For?
Nitrous oxide sedation is especially recommended for:
Patients with anxiety or fear of dental treatment.
Individuals with a strong gag reflex.
Patients who do not respond well to conventional local anesthesia.
Children (from age 5) who require long or complex procedures.
Contraindications to Consider
Before the procedure, a medical evaluation is performed to ensure it is safe and appropriate for each patient. There are certain medical conditions in which nitrous oxide is not recommended, such as:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Vitamin B12 deficiency or hematological disorders
Recent surgeries involving intraocular gas injection
Head trauma or middle ear surgery
Severe claustrophobia or serious psychiatric disorders
Pregnancy (first trimester)
For elderly patients or individuals with disabilities, prior medical assessment is required.
Step by step of the procedure
Step 1: Evaluation of the patient
Blood pressure, heart rate and possible contraindications are checked.
Step 2: Gas administration
Our specialists will fit the nasal mask, adjusted to the patient's face. Once in place, the start of oxygen administration will begin, followed by the gradual introduction of nitrous oxide.
Paso 3: Monitoring
Vital signs will be checked and monitored, along with the patient's comfort at all times.
Step 4: Oxygen adminitration
Once the dental treatment is completed, pure oxygen is administered to the patient for approximately 1-2 minutes to remove any residual gas.
Why choose Turó Park Clinics for your dental treatment?
Turó Park Clinics is an international medical and dental centre in the heart of Barcelona, designed to offer high quality healthcare in a multilingual, comfortable and modern environment.
Why trust us?
Care in 7 languages: Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Arabic and Dutch.
Highly qualified specialists in dentistry, anaesthesia and paediatric dentistry.
Personalised treatments: a treatment plan adapted to the specific needs and expectations of each patient.
Quick appointments and flexible schedules, ideal for residents and international patients passing through Barcelona.
Our answers to the most frequently asked questions about conscious sedation
Is nitrous oxide sedation safe?
Yes, nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedation agents in dentistry and its use in our clinic is supported by advanced technology and skilled staff.
From what age can it be used?
There are specific masks for each age group. Sedation can be used in children from 5 years of age, provided they are cooperative and a prior assessment is carried out.
What does sedation feel like?
Most patients experience a feeling of relaxation, well-being and even mild euphoria. Some describe a feeling of ‘lightness’ or body warmth. The state of consciousness is maintained at all times.
Does conscious sedation have side effects?
Side effects are very rare and mild. They may include dizziness, nausea or mild drowsiness, but usually disappear after a short time.
How many times can conscious sedation be used?
Nitrous oxide sedation is safe for repeated use, provided it is performed under professional supervision and after prior assessment at each session.
