Sedation Dentistry

Children often feel worried or frightened when visiting the dentist and receiving treatment. One of the best and safest ways to lessen their fear is to carry out dental treatment under ‘inhalation sedation’, which is often referred to as ‘laughing gas’ or ‘Nitrous Oxide’. Laughing gas is a type of conscious sedation technique that is clinically proven to be safe and effective to manage pain and anxiety. Nitrous Oxide is mild enough to keep a patient conscious and strong enough to suppress pain during treatments. Laughing gas has no odor and is inhaled through a mask that is placed over the nose before the treatment. It works quickly, and its effects are reversible. All you need to do is breathe normally and you will feel the effects within a few minutes.

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In order to make it more acceptable to your child we have a variety of disposable nasal masks in different scents favorable to children such as ->

  • Strawberry
  • Bubble Gum
  • Orange
  • Vanilla

Nitrous oxide, also referred to as “laughing gas”, is a mild sedative that your dentist may use to help calm your child during their dental procedure. This colorless gas is commonly administered to help young (and old) patients with pain and nervousness.

A dentist may recommend laughing gas for long procedures, children who are fearful or have difficulty sitting still, children with gag reflexes and/or children with special needs. The benefit(s) of using nitrous oxide may include: reduced anxiety, limit unwanted movement or reactions during treatment, raised pain threshold, increased tolerance for a longer appointment and reduced gagging.

Only the duration of your child’s procedure. After the mask is removed, the effects of nitrous oxide will wear off.

According to the American Dental Association, Nitrous oxide is a safe sedative agent that may aid in assistance for certain dental procedures. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes nitrous oxide as a safe method to reduce anxiety among pediatric patients. In short, nitrous oxide has an excellent safety record when administered by a trained professional.

Mixed with oxygen, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask and works in a matter of a few minutes. As your child is instructed to breathe through their nose, they will then relax and experience euphoric feelings. Nitrous oxide will not cause your child to sleep, instead they will remain awake and calm through their procedure.

Yes, there are different types of sedation (oral, nitrous oxide and intravenous), so it’s important to discuss treatment options with your dentist prior to your appointment to choose what is best for your child.