Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous Oxide (N2O) also commonly known in the dental profession as laughing gas, is a safe, mild sedative that can be easily controlled, does not affect heart rate and has no ill effects on the brain, heart, lungs, liver or kidneys.  For this reason, it is very commonly used with children. Although most children are relaxed, comfortable and confident when in a Pediatric Dental Office, sometimes, a child may feel anxious before or during treatment.  Nitrous Oxide provides additional support in helping your child feel more relaxed and at ease.  Have you ever wondered what it is and how it is used?

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is a blend of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. This is an extremely safe way to ensure that your child is comfortable during dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, and extractions.  At Mighty Children’s Dentistry in Coral Springs, Florida, we use nitrous oxide mostly for children with mild to moderate anxiety. If your child needs nitrous oxide, a fitted mask is placed over the nose and as they breathe normally, the uptake occurs.  Your child will experience a sense of well being, warmth, security and relaxation. Nitrous oxide eliminates any apprehension, nervousness or tension associated with dental procedures thus allowing for a cooperative, well managed pediatric patient.  Patients will often feel happy, a little giddy and get “the giggles”, this is why it is commonly called laughing gas.  You child remains fully conscious and will be able to understand and respond to instructions at all times during the procedure.  The effects of nitrous oxide go away just a few minutes after the mask is removed, so there is little to no recovery time before your child back to normal.

Nitrous oxide has very little or no side effects, however, here are some of the potential short-term side effects:

Once the laughing gas is turned off, oxygen is administered to return the patient to his or her normal state. The oxygen flushes out any residual gas from the lungs while maintaining alertness.

To prevent the side effects of nausea and vomiting, please avoid heavy meals two hours prior to your child’s dental procedure.

Laughing gas is extremely safe for children who are anxious about their upcoming dental procedure. Your Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Aurelio A. Bula, in Parkland, Florida will advise you if laughing gas is the best sedative for your child. Taking into account,  your child’s age, medical history and level of anxiety, Dr. Bula may recommend other methods of sedation.

Make an Appointment Today! Our dental team headed by Dr. Aurelio A. Bula is ready to give you the smile you’ve always wanted!