Nitrous Oxide
Occasionally children need more complex dental treatment than a cleaning or routine checkup. When we are filling cavities or completing other treatments, we offer nitrous oxide sedation for our patients. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, has been safely and commonly used in pediatric dentistry for generations. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases, oxygen, and nitrous oxide. This method is administered through a small breathing mask which is placed over the child’s nose where they are breathing a higher concentration of oxygen than “room air” at all times.
This allows your child to relax, suppresses their gag reflex, and speeds up time for your child without putting them to sleep. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry identifies nitrous oxide as a safe and effective technique for treating children’s dental needs. The gas administered is mild and the sedation is easily taken and non-addictive. While inhaling the pediatric laughing gas, your child will remain fully conscious and keep all natural reflexes.
Below are a few side effects your child may feel when receiving the nitrous oxide sedation:
- A warm euphoric feeling
- Lightheadedness
- Floating or tingling in the limbs
- Possible sleepiness
- A giggly and “funny” feeling
If your child feels discomfort or has an adverse reaction from the nitrous oxide sedation, it can easily be reversed by breathing 100% oxygen. The percentage of nitrous oxide being administered can also be adjusted during the procedure.
Your child will experience no lasting side effects from taking this sedation method. After the procedure, you child can resume day-to-day activities as normal.
