Pediatric Nitrous Oxide
At Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry, we offer nitrous oxide in Midwest City, OK, to help children feel more relaxed during dental treatment. We understand that bright lights, unfamiliar sounds, and new surroundings can sometimes make a dental visit feel a little overwhelming for kids.
Our pediatric dental team does everything we can to create a calm, welcoming environment, but some children may benefit from a little extra help relaxing. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, can ease dental anxiety and help make treatment more comfortable, positive, and stress-free.
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas, is a simple way to help children feel calm and relaxed during dental treatment. Despite the name, it won’t necessarily have your child giggling through the appointment. Instead, it can ease nervousness and make it easier for them to feel comfortable while we provide care.
Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that is mixed with oxygen and breathed naturally through a small, child-sized mask placed over the nose. Most children begin to feel more relaxed within just a few minutes, and some may even feel a little sleepy.
Once treatment is finished, we stop the nitrous oxide and have your child breathe oxygen for a short time. The effects wear off quickly, so there is typically no lengthy recovery period needed before getting back to the rest of the day.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Before treatment, our pediatric dental team will review your child’s medical history, walk you through how nitrous oxide works, and answer any questions you may have. During the procedure, your child will breathe the nitrous oxide through a small mask while staying awake and able to talk with our team.
Once treatment is complete, your child will breathe pure oxygen for a few minutes to help the effects wear off quickly. In most cases, they can get back to their normal activities soon after the appointment.
Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for Children?
Yes. Nitrous oxide has been safely used in pediatric dentistry for decades to help children remain calm during dental treatment. Our experienced pediatric dentists carefully monitor every child throughout the procedure and adjust the amount of nitrous oxide as needed to provide a safe and comfortable experience.
Help Your Child Feel Comfortable During Their Visit
If your child feels nervous about dental treatment or could use a little extra help relaxing, our pediatric dental team is here to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Contact Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry today to find out if nitrous oxide may be a good option for your child and schedule a visit at our Oklahoma City or Midwest City office.
