Nitrous Oxide Specialist

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, is a breathable gas that the dental team uses to make your child more comfortable during dental procedures. Your child inhales the gas through a small mask that fits loosely over their nose. That allows them to remain awake but relaxed and makes dental work easier for both them and their dental team.

Using nitrous oxide in pediatric dentistry has many benefits, including:

• Decreasing or alleviating anxiety
• Reducing movement and reactions during treatment
• Increasing pain threshold
• Enhancing patient cooperation
• Improving tolerance for longer procedures
• Reducing gag response
• Enhancing other dental sedatives

The team at RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry calls nitrous oxide "ice cream air." It comes in several flavors, and the team finds it is especially effective for calming younger children, children who struggle sitting still, and those with special needs.

When should my child get nitrous oxide?

The RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry team may suggest nitrous oxide if your child is getting dental work such as:

• Extensive cleaning
• Scaling or root planing
• Orthodontics
• Fillings
• Crowns
• Extractions

If your child gets nitrous oxide during a procedure, they are fully alert within just a couple of moments after the team completes their work and removes the mask. Your child quickly regains their normal activity level without any residual grogginess.

Is nitrous oxide a good option for my child?

When the dental team discusses procedures your child may need, they may offer options for sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide. They may recommend nitrous oxide alone or along with other sedation if your child:

• Is anxious, fearful, or worried
• Has a difficult time being still
• Has special needs or is medically complex
• Has a sensitive gag reflex
• Needs extensive or lengthy dental work
• Can't use local anesthesia

If you have any concerns about your child receiving nitrous oxide, the team is qualified and willing to answer any questions you may have. The team at RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry wants your child to have the best dental experience possible and for you to feel they are in safe and capable hands for their oral health.

If you would like to see if nitrous oxide may help improve your child's experience, call or book an appointment online with RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry today.