Nitrous oxide, or better known as laughing gas, is a mild form of sedation for children who visit the dentist and may be anxious about their scheduled treatments. Nitrous oxide helps to ease patient’s fears to help them relax during their visit, and to receive dental treatment in a comfortable and safe manner.

Nitrous oxide is perhaps the safest sedative in dentistry. It is well tolerated, having a rapid onset, and is reversible, can be adjusted in various concentrations and is non-allergenic. Your child remains fully conscious. Additionally, nitrous oxide reduces the gag reflex which can interfere with effective dental treatment. You should inform our office regarding any respiratory condition that makes breathing through the nose difficult for your child.

Children are, of course, not all alike. Therefore, all of our dental services are tailored specifically to your child. In a very small percentage of children nitrous oxide may not be effective, especially those children who have severe anxiety, nasal congestion or discomfort wearing a nasal mask. We will review your child’s medical history, level of anxiety, and treatment needs and inform you if nitrous oxide is recommended for your child.