My Child Has A Cavity? Are You Kidding? They Won’t Sit For That

In the Know for You To Know

You want your child to feel calm, comfortable and confident. Pediatric Dentists understand children’s needs and have designed their offices to make your child feel relaxed and special.

Sometimes, however there is a procedure your child needs that can make them feel anxious before or during treatment. Your child may need more support than a gentle, caring manner to feel comfortable. Nitrous Oxide (aka Laughing Gas) is a safe, effective remedy that is used to calm a child’s fears and enhance their ability to receive their dental treatment.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide is a blended mixture of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. A specially designed nose mask is placed over your child’s nose which allows them to breath in this mixture. It is carefully adjusted and monitored so that your child receives the right amount to make them feel happy, calm and comfortable. This is not a sedative, so your child never “goes to sleep.”

How does my child feel when breathing Nitrous Oxide?

The nose mask comes in a variety of scented flavors. Imagine having your choice of bubblegum, strawberry, orange, cherry, vanilla, plain or mint.

Your child will smell the sweet aroma and experience a sense of relaxation. They may also feel a sense of silliness and happiness. They may happily laugh. This is why this is often called “laughing gas.” Children sometimes say they feel silly or giggly and that their arms and legs feel “tingly.”

How safe is Laughing Gas?

Very safe, and well tolerated. It has a rapid onset, is reversible, can be adjusted to meet specific needs, and is non-allergenic. Your child is fully conscious, awake and aware of their surroundings when breathing Laughing Gas; and they are able to communicate at all times.

Laughing gas is considered safe for children by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Academy of Pediatrics.

Laughing gas is administered by trained Pediatric Dentists and your child is monitored throughout the entire procedure for their safety.

Are there any Special Instructions?

First, it is recommended that your child have nothing to eat or drink for four hours before their appointment. This is so that your child will not become nauseous or vomit, which can happen with a full stomach. Bring something for them to drink after the procedure.

Second, if your child starts coughing, sneezing, develops a runny nose, is congested, or gets sick it’s better to reschedule your appointment.

Third, call your Pediatric Dentist if your child begins taking any medicine with in five days of your appointment to talk about the medicine.

Will this be effective for my Child?

Laughing Gas is safe and effective. Not all children are alike, so this is tailored to your child as an individual.

Before your treatment appointment your Pediatric Dentist will discuss with you any risks or concerns as they relate to your child.

In addition, Pediatric Dentists are very receptive and always happy to talk with you about your questions or concerns. All you have to do is ask.

Has your child had Laughing Gas for their dental treatment? Did you find it helpful? We’d really like to know. Email us at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us on Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!