Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 3 minutes
Dental procedures can be a source of anxiety for children, making it difficult for them to receive the necessary treatment. That’s why many dentists offer nitrous oxide sedation, also known as laughing gas, to help ease their patients’ nerves and make dental work more comfortable.
In this blog, we’ll answer 10 frequently asked questions about nitrous oxide sedation to help parents better understand its use in dentistry.
Table of Contents
1. What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or “sweet air,” is a colorless and odorless gas. It was first used in dentistry in 1844, which means it has been used for 150 years! It is commonly used in dental settings to help patients relax and reduce pain during procedures.
2. What is nitrous oxide used for in dentistry?
In dentistry, nitrous oxide is primarily used as a mild sedative to help patients relax during procedures. It is commonly used for children who are afraid of dental treatment, have a low pain tolerance, or have difficulty sitting still.
3. How long does laughing gas last?
The effects of nitrous oxide last until the dentist turns off the gas. It takes about 5–10 minutes for the effects to fully wear off.
4. What does laughing gas feel like?
Nitrous oxide induces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria in most patients, which is why it’s often referred to as “laughing gas.” Some patients may also experience tingling sensations in their limbs or a feeling of heaviness.
5. Does nitrous oxide put kids to sleep?
No, nitrous oxide does not typically put kids to sleep. It is a mild sedative that helps them relax and reduces anxiety, but they will remain conscious and responsive during the procedure.
6. Can you still feel pain with laughing gas?
Nitrous oxide does have some pain-relieving properties, but it is not designed to completely eliminate pain. Local anesthetics are used in conjunction with nitrous oxide to ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
7. Can my child eat before laughing gas?
It is recommended that children do not eat for at least two hours before receiving nitrous oxide sedation. This helps prevent nausea or vomiting, which can occur if a child has food in their stomach while under sedation.
8. Can kids walk after laughing gas?
Yes, kids can walk after receiving nitrous oxide sedation. The effects of the gas wear off quickly, and most patients are able to walk and function normally shortly after treatment.
9. How safe is sedation for kids?
When administered by a trained professional, nitrous oxide sedation is considered safe for children. The gas is quickly eliminated from the body, and there are typically no long-term side effects.
10. Is it normal for kids to be sleepy after laughing gas?
Some children may feel sleepy or have mild drowsiness after receiving nitrous oxide sedation. This is normal and should subside within a few hours. It’s important to closely monitor your child after treatment and avoid any activities that require coordination or concentration until the effects wear off completely.
Stress-Free Appointments with Denver Youth Dentistry
Nitrous oxide sedation can be a valuable tool in helping children feel more comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures. If your child experiences anxiety or has difficulty with dental work, talk to their dentist about the possibility of using nitrous oxide sedation to make their next appointment less stressful.
We prioritize our patients’ comfort and strive to provide the best possible care for every child who walks through our doors. We hope this blog has answered some of your questions about laughing gas and its use in dentistry. If you have any further inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
If you are searching for a kids dentist in Denver, Aurora, Hampden or Thornton, we can help. To book an appointment at one of our locations, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online request form. One of our staff will call you to book an appointment.
