Don’t be alarmed if your child feels slightly nervous about their upcoming dental visit. It’s when they refuse to get in the car to go to their appointment because they’re scared and anxious about treatment. Dentists understand this problem all too well; it’s why they offer nitrous oxide as a safe, reliable sedation option. As a gentle way to ease nerves and create a calming experience, it can help your child feel more comfortable while undergoing necessary dental care. Keep reading to learn more about this unique solution so you and your child understand its benefits.
It Has Minimal Side Effects (Often None At All)
If you’re worried about your child experiencing poor side effects after receiving nitrous oxide, don’t be. It’s the safest sedation option used by dentists and causes few, if any, issues after the mask is removed. Most children can return to school or home immediately after their appointment and resume normal activity.
In rare cases, some kids may feel mild dizziness or nausea, but it usually disappears quickly, often within minutes.
Sedation Wears Off Quickly
Nitrous oxide has no lingering effects because it wears off so quickly. Once the nasal mask is removed and the gas is turned off, your child will begin breathing pure oxygen, so the effects fade almost immediately.
This makes nitrous oxide a convenient sedation option, as you can worry less about post-procedural issues that might otherwise make your child feel groggy.
Nitrous Oxide is Not Local Anesthesia
Say your child needs a dental filling; nitrous oxide will help keep them calm during treatment, but it will not numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. The dentist will use local anesthesia to ensure they feel no pain. As a numbing agent, it creates a painless procedure, while the nitrous oxide works to prevent anxiety, so your child remains comfortable and at ease the entire time.
Receiving Nitrous Oxide is a Simple Process
As soon as your child sits in the treatment chair, a dental team member will place a small nasal mask over their nose and ask them to inhale. They’ll turn on the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture, and within minutes, your little one will feel more relaxed. There’s no struggle; instead, your child will breathe normally throughout their visit, allowing the dentist to work more efficiently.
As a parent, you want all the details about your child’s dental care. Don’t worry; it’s normal. Now that you understand nitrous oxide and how it can help your family’s youngest member stay calm during their visit, you can feel more confident about what they will experience in the treatment chair.
About the Practice
At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our pediatric dentist, children’s general dentist, and board-certified orthodontist are ready to help young smiles have positive experiences. When anxiety and nervousness get in the way of essential treatment, we offer nitrous oxide to curb fears and create greater relaxation. If you want to know more about this reliable sedation method, visit our website or call (860) 224–2419 to schedule an appointment.