Using Nitrous Oxide To Help Kids With Difficult Dental Appointments

For some children, dental procedures can be intimidating, especially if the child is anxious. The goal is to provide pediatric dental patients with a positive experience in a safe, stress-free environment. One way we are able to achieve that is through the use of nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas.” This mild form of inhalation sedation is commonly used to relieve anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures. 

What is the purpose of nitrous oxide? what are the benefits? 

Nitrous oxide can be used for a wide range of dental procedures, from cleaning teeth and filling cavities to managing painful procedures like administration of local anesthesia. Beyond this, If the child has a high gag reflex it can also help to dampen that reflex. 

There are numerous benefits to using nitrous oxide:

1. Quick to relax: Nitrous oxide helps children relax while sitting in the dentist’s chair so they can get the care they need to maintain a healthy smile without fear, anxiety, or upset making their dental visits much more comfortable! 
2. Quick to wear off: Nitrous oxide wears off as soon as the breathing mask is changed to release only 100% oxygen at the end of the dental procedure.
3. No lingering side effects: Because there are no lingering side effects from nitrous oxide, it is safe for patients of all ages, including young children