Your child’s comfort and health are our top priorities here at Daghlian Pediatric Dentistry & Sokolowski Orthodontics. If your child struggles with anxiety or fear, or even if they simply have difficulty receiving treatment comfortably, Dr. Rita Daghlian may recommend nitrous oxide as an option to help them.
What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide (N2O), also known as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative medication. It is a colorless gas with a slightly sweet odor, and is both safe and highly effective in helping your child feel comfortable while they receive treatment. This form of sedation is most frequently recommended for children who experience dental anxiety and fear.
If your child is receiving nitrous oxide, our pediatric dentist and team will fit a small mask over their nose. The gas is mixed with oxygen, and as your child inhales, they will begin to feel more at ease. They may feel like they are “floating,” and in some cases may even fall asleep! It is possible that they won’t remember their treatment.
After your child’s treatment is completed, we will gradually decrease the flow of gas until your child has completely recovered. They will feel a little groggy and drowsy after their appointment, and if you are unable to remain with them yourself, please make sure that another adult is available to keep an eye on them for the next several hours while the effects of the nitrous oxide wear off.
Nitrous Oxide & Your Child’s Safety
Your child’s safety and comfort are paramount. Our team will monitor your child closely throughout their entire appointment to ensure they remain comfortable and that they are safe when receiving nitrous oxide.
Our assistants are also PAL (pediatric advanced life support) certified, as well as CPR certified. If you have any questions or concerns, please call and speak with a member of our team.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide
The benefits of nitrous oxide include:
- Fast-acting – nitrous oxide works almost instantly to achieve the necessary levels of comfort
- Reduces anxiety
- Increases comfort and relieves pain
- Can be administered easily, and without the use of needles
- Minimal recovery time – nitrous oxide wears off very quickly following treatment
- Very safe for use – our pediatric dentist and team will monitor your child closely during their treatment
Building a Dental Home – The Power of Positive Experiences
We believe in the power of positive experiences. This means our number one priority at all times is making sure that your child is happy, comfortable and safe. We want our office to be their “dental home” – a place where they feel at ease and where they enjoy coming. Dr. Daghlian and our team do everything possible to build trusting relationships and make your child’s experience (and yours) as stress-free as possible.
Nitrous oxide is one of many tools we use to help “build” your child’s dental home. If your child is too fearful or stressed to receive the care they need, and if other methods of positive reinforcement are not enough to help them relax completely, our pediatric dentist may recommend trying nitrous oxide. We will discuss all your child’s options for treatment and for managing anxiety with you so that you can make the best decision for their dental health and overall wellbeing. If nitrous oxide is being considered seriously as an option, Dr. Daghlian will also review your child’s medical history and any medications they may be taking to determine if it is the right choice for your child.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment
We welcome you to call our office today to learn more about nitrous oxide in Newport Beach and Huntington Beach, California, and schedule a consultation with our caring pediatric dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Nitrous Oxide Sedation
At Daghlian Pediatric Dentistry & Sokolowski Orthodontics, we understand that visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience, especially for our younger patients. That’s why we offer the option of nitrous oxide sedation. By answering some common questions about nitrous oxide on this page, we hope to show you the value it brings and the benefits you’ll receive when choosing this safe and effective sedation method.
Q: Why should I consider nitrous oxide sedation for my child?
A: Nitrous oxide sedation is an excellent option for children who experience dental anxiety or have difficulty sitting still for a longer period. It helps them relax, reduces their fear and discomfort, and allows us to perform the necessary dental procedures efficiently and effectively. Our goal is to provide a positive dental experience for your child, and nitrous oxide sedation can contribute to that.
Q: Is nitrous oxide safe for my child?
A: Yes, nitrous oxide is safe when administered by a trained dental professional. Our pediatric dentists have extensive experience in providing nitrous oxide sedation and closely monitor your child throughout the procedure. They carefully adjust the level of sedation to ensure it is both effective and safe for your child.
Q: Are there any side effects of nitrous oxide sedation?
A: Nitrous oxide is a well-established sedation method with minimal side effects. Some patients may experience mild dizziness, nausea, or a headache, but these effects usually disappear shortly after the procedure. We always monitor your child closely during the dental visit to ensure their comfort and safety.
Q: How long does the nitrous oxide effect last?
A: The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly once the mask is removed, allowing your child to resume their normal activities without any lingering drowsiness. This means that you can schedule their dental appointment conveniently and get back to your daily routine afterward.
Q: How can I prepare my child for nitrous oxide sedation?
A: Before your child’s dental appointment, it is important to let them know about the benefits of nitrous oxide sedation. Explain how it will help them feel calm and relaxed during the procedure. Assure them that our team of friendly and experienced professionals will be by their side throughout the entire process.