Batna Journal of Medical Sciences
Volume 12, Numéro 1, Pages 56-64
2026-04-01
Equimolar Mixture Of Oxygen And Nitrous Oxide As A Method Of Conscious Sedation In Dentistry: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors : Baroudi Fouzia Kawter . Allal Naouel . Oudghiri Fouad . Keddar Amina . Abdellaoui Chahinez .
Abstract
Background: The equimolar mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide (MEOPA) is widely used for conscious sedation in dentistry. It facilitates the management of anxious or uncooperative patients and serves as an alternative to general anesthesia. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and clinical indications of MEOPA for improving the management of difficult patients and optimizing treatment outcomes. Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. An electronic search was performed in PubMed and Lissa databases, including English and French publications from 2004 to 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria after screening titles, abstracts, and full texts. Results: The search identified 31 articles, of which 9 were included in the final analysis. Findings indicate that MEOPA significantly improves patient cooperation, reduces anxiety, and facilitates dental care. Its combination with midazolam enhances effectiveness. MEOPA is particularly beneficial for patients with intellectual disabilities and during tooth extractions. Adverse effects, such as vomiting, are rare (<1%) and generally associated with sedation duration or depth. The use of the Porter/Brown mask also reduces nitrous oxide emissions, promoting a more environmentally friendly practice. Conclusions: MEOPA is an effective and safe sedation technique in dentistry, optimizing the management of difficult patients and enhancing the overall dental care experience. However, the heterogeneity of the studies highlights the need for further standardized research.
Keywords
MEOPA ; Nitrous Oxide ; Conscious Sedation ; Dental Care ; Dental Anxiety ; Pediatric Dentistry
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