Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for My Child?

Whether they have dental anxiety or struggle to sit still long enough to undergo even a routine dental procedure, getting a child to the dentist can be a challenge for many parents. Sedation dentistry can help minimize any pain, discomfort, or anxiety during dental treatment. Nitrous oxide — also known as laughing gas — is the mildest form of sedation dentistry, and it’s safe to use for children.

At Oasis Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics in Falls Church, Virginia, Nathalie Phaeton, DDS, and Ki Youn Kil, DDS, offer nitrous oxide and sedation dentistry services for children. In this blog, they explain how nitrous oxide can help in pediatric dentistry.

Is nitrous oxide safe for my child?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), nitrous oxide is a safe and effective form of sedation dentistry for children. It’s mild enough that your child remains fully awake and conscious, but it can block pain and help your child feel happy and relaxed throughout the treatment.

The laughing gas is applied through a mask, so it’s noninvasive and perfect for children who are nervous or afraid of needles. The effects of the laughing gas typically wear off within a few minutes after the mask is removed, so you don’t have to worry about lingering effects after your child’s appointment. 

Our team is available to answer all of your questions and address any concerns prior to your child’s appointment. 

When is nitrous oxide used for pediatric dental treatments?

Sedation dentistry serves several purposes, from calming dental fear and anxiety to pain management. Whether your child has a higher sensitivity to pain, has dental anxiety or fear, or struggles to sit still in the dentist’s chair for the duration of a dental procedure.

Your child’s comfort and safety is our team’s first priority. Nitrous oxide can be used for a range of treatments, from routine cleanings to filling cavities to other types of dental damage. Nitrous oxide is also a good option if your child has gag reflex issues that might interfere with their dental treatment. 

Every child is different, and while nitrous oxide is a safe and efficient form of sedation dentistry, some patients may experience mild to moderate side effects, such as numbness, dry mouth, confusion, or headache. 

Whether your child suffers from dental anxiety, a low threshold to pain, or needs additional support to get through dental treatment, we can help. There are options available to help your child get the dental treatment they need.

For more information about the safety and benefits of nitrous oxide, call 703-498-2440 or book an appointment online with Oasis Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics today.