If you haven’t heard of nitrous oxide, you may be familiar with its more commonly used name: laughing gas.” Dental anxiety affects people of all ages and can make attending the dental office stressful. Fortunately, nitrous oxide is available to help children feel more at ease in the dental chair. Continue reading to learn more about nitrous oxide, how it works, and if it’s suitable for children.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Work?
Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that can make dental treatment more comfortable by keeping patients in a relaced, euphoric state. The gas is mixed with oxygen and administered through a small mask that fits over your nose. There is nothing special the patient needs to do either. Just breathe normally! The dental team is able to adjust the nitrous oxide and oxygen levels to keep your child comfortable throughout their procedure.
Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for My Child?
According to the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, nitrous oxide sedation is a safe sedation option for children. Because it is so mild, your child will remain conscious throughout the duration of their treatment. However, it can still help to reduce discomfort and help children feel at ease during their treatment.
Nitrous oxide is administered through a mask, so there are no needles involves. The effects of this treatment wear off in just a few minutes too, so they shouldn’t have any lingering negative effects.
When Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Used?
Sedation dentistry can be used for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common ones.
- Dental Anxiety: This is the most common reason why patients opt for nitrous oxide sedation. It helps to make those feeling fearful or scared to feel more at-ease.
- Increased Sensitivity: If your child has gums or teeth that are especially sensitive, a normal dental can be uncomfortable. Nitrous oxide can help to lessen some of this discomfort.
- Overactive Gag Reflex: Some patients gag easier than others. If your child gags easily and uncontrollably, nitrous oxide can help to lessen the reactiveness of this reflex.
- Long Procedure: If your child has a long procedure or multiple procedures during one visit coming up, nitrous oxide can help to make the visit more tolerable for your child.
Nitrous oxide is an effective, safe option for children in a variety of cases! This way, your child can get the dental care they need without the added stress.
About the Author
At Joliet Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Brittaney Hill and Dr. Taylor Jackson work together to treat patients in the Joliet area. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about nitrous oxide sedation or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit their website or call (815) 729-2277.