Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Certain dental procedures might cause anxiety or fear in some youngsters, making visits to the dentist uncomfortable. Many dental practices, however, provide varying levels of sedation dentistry for children, which can make the overall procedure more comfortable for your child. Nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas, is one of the most prevalent, safest, and dependable forms of sedation in pediatric dentistry. Visit Aurora Childrens Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, for the best dental solutions to improve your child's oral health.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is an inhaled gas that reduces anxiety and allows patients to relax. It also has some analgesic properties, which means it can help reduce pain. Up to 80% of children who are given nitrous oxide will develop momentary amnesia, which means they will have no recollection of what happened while they were breathing the nitrous gas. Nitrous oxide is often known as "laughing gas" or "happy gas."

Who Is a Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?

Any child who might otherwise avoid going to the dentist due to anxiety can benefit from conscious sedation with nitrous oxide. Before we begin treatment, we will obtain a comprehensive medical history from your kid, including any drugs he or she is currently on. We will make certain that your child is safe and secure. 

How Will My Child Receive Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is administered to children through a little fitting mask that covers the child's nose. The mask contains oxygen mixed with nitrous oxide, and absorption happens in the lungs while the patient breathes normally via their nose. The sedative kicks in after about five minutes, but the mask remains in place throughout the surgery. When the therapy is finished, the nitrous oxide will be switched off, and the youngster will breathe in pure oxygen for a few minutes to empty up any leftover gas. Nitrous oxide can occasionally produce minor nausea. 

The Advantages of Nitrous Oxide

There are numerous advantages to using nitrous oxide for a child who is undergoing a dental operation. Nitrous Oxide is beneficial for apprehensive, worried patients who are suffering from anxiety. It also raises the threshold for some patients in terms of pain or discomfort reduction. If your child has a gag reflex, this can also assist to alleviate the symptom. For those longer appointments, nitrous oxide can also improve tolerance and communication. 

For the best dental care for your children, visit Aurora Childrens Dentistry at 3340 Providence Dr Suite #A552, Anchorage, AK 99508, or call us at (907) 336-1234.