Nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas" or "sweet air," is a very safe and effective sedation option for children who are nervous or anxious about dental treatment. It is a sweet smelling, colorless gas used to ease pain and anxiety. Nitrous oxide is not intended to put your child to sleep.
Indications for use include:
• A fearful or anxious patient
• Certain patients with special health care needs
• A patient whose gag reflex interferes with dental treatment
• A patient for whom profound local anesthesia cannot be obtained
• A cooperative child undergoing a lengthy dental procedure
One of the most common side effects of nitrous oxide sedation is nausea or vomiting when used with a child with a full stomach. Therefore, we recommend that your child does not consume a heavy meal two hours prior to treatment with nitrous oxide.
Before treatment with nitrous oxide, be sure to inform your dentist of any medical conditions your child suffers from and of any medications your child is taking.
