Risks of Nitrous Oxide

Are there any risks associated with nitrous oxide? Is nitrous oxide a health hazard for dentists and their staff? Any such risk or hazard is related to the leakage of nitrous oxide from various sources in a dental office. Factors governing the concentration of nitrous oxide in ambient air of operatory have been enlisted along with a stepwise description on its measurement. This chapter talks about the recommended level of nitrous oxide in an operatory, in different countries, followed by the steps to minimize the level. “Safe practice controls” when working with nitrous oxide in order to curtail the exposure of team members are highlighted. Questions related to the safety of nitrous oxide around mothers or staff members who could be pregnant are answered. Pictorial explanation of biochemical basis of hazards related to nitrous oxide, has been done accompanied with the description of effects, if any, on the various systems of human body.