Does your child have fear of going to the dentist or get nervous at dental visits? Nitrous oxide sedation for kids is the best option to help calm little ones’ nerves. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a form of light sedation used to relieve anxiety and restlessness during your child’s dental appointment.
Nitrous oxide is the safest and most predictable form of sedation approved for use in children by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. A specially trained dentist can administer nitrous oxide during your child’s dental procedure to help them remain calm and stay still for lengthier procedures.
When is Nitrous Oxide Used for Kids?
Nitrous oxide has been used in pediatric dentistry for many years, with small doses being completely harmless. This type of sedation is used for kids experiencing anxiety about their dental visits. It’s also useful for kids who have a shorter attention span and struggle to sit still or follow directions.
Purpose of Nitrous Oxide and Its’ Benefits
Many dental procedures for kids use nitrous oxide, including cavity fillings, inlays, crowns, and more. Pediatric dental care uses nitrous oxide because, unlike full sedation dentistry, it relaxes the child without putting them to sleep. The effect of nitrous oxide works quickly to relax kids and is also reversed quickly. And unlike IV and oral sedation, there are no lingering side effects.
How it Works and What to Expect
This form of conscious sedation is delivered through a small fitted mask that covers your child’s nose and carries oxygen mixed with nitrous breathed in by the patient. It remains on during the procedure, but sedation takes place within 5 minutes. Once the procedure is done, the mask is removed, and the child will breathe in pure oxygen to clear any remaining gas. Your child will immediately be able to return to school or other activities, as there are no lingering side effects.
Calming Your Child’s Nerves with Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation for kids is the best option for soothing stress that may come with oral health treatment. If your child is prone to tooth sensitivity or is nervous about their procedures, their pediatric dentist visit can be made much more comfortable.
Get connected to learn more about nitrous oxide sedation for kids and other forms of light sedation treatments.