Thermocamera studies of nitrous oxide dispersion in the dental surgery.

Nitrous oxide is used in dentistry for sedation and analgesia. Chronic occupational exposure of dental personnel to trace concentrations of nitrous oxide has been reported as a potential health hazard. A new application of the thermocamera technique was used to study the dispersion of nitrous oxide during dental analgesia. Four breathing systems with different evacuation systems were tested and found to vary in scavenging efficiency. A local exhaust system ensured minimal exposure when nitrous oxide leaks contaminating the air in the dentist's breathing zone occur.