Parents are an important part of their kid's successful dental procedures. One of the most important steps you can take as a parent is understanding how laughing gas will work for your kids. This is just one method of sedation dentists use, and it ensures that your child is calm but not in a deep sleep.

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A dentist may recommend sedation for…

- Long procedures or multiple procedures

- Children fearful of the dentist

- Children who have special needs

- Children who have difficulty sitting still
 

Sedation Dentistry uses a mild calming drug while your son or daughter receives a dental care procedure. The medicine may last up to six hours. One of the most common forms of sedating a dental patient is the use of nitrous oxide — also commonly referred to as laughing gas. 

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What is Nitrous Oxide/Laughing Gas?

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a safe, mild sedative that your dentist may utilize to help calm your child throughout a dental procedure. It is typically delivered through a “space mask,” carrying oxygen mixed with the medication. All your child needs to do is stay calm and breathe through the nose. The sedative takes effect in approximately five minutes.

 

Nitrous oxide does not put your child into a deep slumber. He or she will be awake throughout the procedure and, as happens quite often, will enjoy a sense of happiness. Following the procedure, your child will breathe pure oxygen for around five minutes to clear out remaining gas.

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