Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for Children?

Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that most people know as “laughing gas” because of its ability to cause some people to giggle or laugh. It’s also referred to as happy gas due to the mild feeling of euphoria it causes. It doesn’t influence heart rate, nor does it have negative effects on the lungs, liver, kidneys, or brain.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes the use of nitrous oxide as a safe way to help reduce anxiety and create analgesia, or the inability to feel pain. It’s a really good sedation method for children who need fillings, crowns, or extractions, and it can reduce their fear of dental visits.

The Safety Precautions We Use

All dentists using nitrous oxide on children will review your child’s medical history to rule out any allergies, diseases, disorders, birth defects, recent illnesses, or any other issue that may cause adverse reactions. Nitrous oxide will not cause your child to feel too drowsy, or even significantly take away sensations. For overly anxious children, it can help them get through a dental visit that may have otherwise terrified them.

Your child will breathe in the nitrous oxide through a mask. What they breathe in is actually a mixture of the gas and oxygen. Usually, it takes just about five minutes for the nitrous oxide to cause relaxation. Once the procedure is over, we turn off the gas. Your child should be feeling back to normal very quickly after he or she starts breathing normal air again. One of the benefits of nitrous oxide is that the levels are easy to control. Your child stays awake during the entire procedure.

Call Us for Questions or Concerns

Your child’s safety is our number one priority. We understand that some parents may feel a little nervous about their children receiving nitrous oxide during treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about the safety of nitrous oxide, don’t hesitate to call us with any questions you may have. We’re here to not only give your child a beautiful and healthy smile but to make sure we involve you, their parent, every step of the way.