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Sedation

Environmental Impact of Inhaled Anesthetics in Dentistry

351 - Nitrous Oxide in a Pediatric Dental Institution: Exploring Environmental & Cost Benefits of Reduced Use

Saturday, May 24, 2025
1:15 PM - 1:30 PM MDT
Has Audio

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Leah G. Conley (she/her/hers)

    Dental Student
    University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
    University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
    Aurora, Colorado, United States

    • Research Mentor(s)

  • JL

    Jennifer Lee, DMD, MS

    The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
    Orion charter Township, Michigan, United States

    • Program Director(s)

  • Kim Hammersmith, DDS, MPH, MS

    Program Director
    The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital
    The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital
    Columbus, Ohio, United States

Abstract:

Environmental Impact of Inhaled Anesthetics in Dentistry
Purpose

Nitrous oxide, widely used in dental practices, contributes significantly to health care emissions. This study aimed to evaluate the environmental impact of nitrous oxide use in dental procedures at a pediatric institution with a focus on flow rates and usage duration, to identify opportunities for reducing emissions.


Methods

A review of historical and contemporary dental and anesthesiology literature was conducted to examine nitrous oxide use practices. Additionally, data from dental procedures were analyzed to determine the average flow rate and duration of nitrous oxide use among pediatric patients undergoing treatment ages 24-71 months. Findings were compared against optimized practices from the literature to identify potential improvements.


Results

The study found that the average nitrous oxide flow rate in dental procedures was 5 L/min, with an average usage duration of 31.6 minutes (final data pending). These findings align with historical practices but exceed recommended optimized flow rates identified in anesthesiology literature. Lower flow rates and shorter durations, when clinically appropriate, have been shown to significantly reduce emissions while maintaining patient safety and comfort.


Conclusions

Current nitrous oxide practices in dentistry reflect a need for updated protocols to align with optimized, evidence-based recommendations. Reducing flow rates and usage durations, informed by both historical and modern insights, can significantly decrease the environmental impact of nitrous oxide use. Implementing these changes will support sustainable dental practices while maintaining high standards of care.

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