Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Many kids experience anxiety or agitation when it’s time to sit in the dentist’s chair, regardless of the reason for their visit. Dr. Vahid understands that children have unique fears, needs, and challenges that can make it difficult to sit still throughout their procedure and offers nitrous oxide sedation to calm their frayed nerves.
This medication, commonly known as laughing gas, can help them feel relaxed, but you must consult our team first to ensure your child is a good candidate. Continue reading to learn more about how it works and who it helps, and feel free to contact us with any additional questions.
Who is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) has been used for centuries, so its effects are well-documented. It’s considered safe for most people, including children, when administered by qualified professionals, like Dr. Vahid.
We might suggest this medication if your child has:
- Challenges sitting still for longer periods.
- A fear of needles.
- A strong gag reflex.
- Extreme anxiety or overstimulation at the dentist’s office.
- A resistance to local numbing agents.
However, our Woodland Pediatric Dentistry will update your child’s medical history before administering this or any sedative to avoid doing anything that might interfere with their general health. If they have sinus congestion, respiratory disease, or are taking other medications that could have adverse effects, we might recommend against it.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
This fast-acting drug is inhaled through a small gas mask that’s placed over your child’s nose while we work. It usually kicks in within moments, typically inducing a sense of calm, relaxation, or euphoria. It doesn’t put your kid to sleep, but it can cause tingling or tickly sensations in the limbs or give them a bad case of the giggles, hence its popular nickname.
Then, the impact wears off just as quickly as it begins once the mask is removed. There usually aren’t lingering aftereffects, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to take your child to school or resume their normal activities afterward.
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide doesn’t usually produce lingering aftereffects to be aware of, but there’s a chance it might induce some mild lightheadedness or nausea. As a result, we may monitor your child for a few minutes once their procedure is complete to ensure they’re steady on their feet before releasing them to your care.
Then, depending on their procedure, we might also provide additional aftercare instructions to follow that are intended to help your child recover as quickly as possible without developing potential complications.
