What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative used to help children feel more relaxed during dental treatments. It has been a trusted option in dentistry for decades due to its safety and effectiveness.
Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and inhaled gently through a soft nasal mask. Within minutes, children may feel a sense of calmness, lightness, or even a mild tingling sensation—all while remaining awake and responsive. This makes it not only effective but also noninvasive and anxiety-free.
Nitrous oxide is especially helpful for:
- Children who experience dental anxiety.
- Patients undergoing certain dental procedures like fillings or extractions.
- Younger kids who have trouble sitting still for long periods.
At Little Smiles of Washington, our skilled team of Dr. Jaime Orrick, Dr. Corey Hastings, Dr. Matt Freihofer, and Dr. Carly Boudreaux (located only at our Hazelwood office) use evidence-based practices to ensure your child receives the highest level of care in a stress-free setting.
What to Expect with Nitrous Oxide Use
For parents experiencing nitrous oxide use for the first time, we want to make the process as transparent and reassuring as possible. Here’s what you can expect during your child’s appointment:
- Pre-Procedure Setup: Your child will be seated comfortably in the dental chair. Our friendly team will explain everything step-by-step, using kid-friendly language to ensure your child feels informed and safe.
- The Nasal Mask: We gently place a small, soft mask over your child’s nose. It’s comfortable and comes in fun scents kids love, like strawberry or bubblegum!
- Relaxation Phase: Your child will feel relaxed within 2-3 minutes of inhaling the nitrous oxide. They might become giggly, chatty, or simply calm—every child reacts slightly differently, but all responses are completely normal.
- Conducting the Treatment: Once your child is relaxed, we proceed with the dental treatment. The benefit of nitrous oxide is that it allows them to receive high-quality care without unnecessary stress or discomfort.
- Post-Treatment Recovery: After the procedure, we will turn off the nitrous oxide, and your child will receive 100% oxygen for about 5 minutes to clear any lingering sedative effects. Most children feel normal within minutes and have no trouble resuming regular activities.
At every step of the way, our team ensures your child’s well-being is the top priority, offering consistent care and reassurance.
FAQs About Nitrous Oxide for Parents
As a parent, we understand you may have questions about using nitrous oxide for your child’s dental visit. Here are some of the most common questions we hear—and their answers:
Is nitrous oxide safe for children?
Yes! Nitrous oxide is considered one of the safest sedation methods in pediatric dentistry. It’s non-addictive, easy to administer, and its effects wear off quickly after the procedure.
Will my child be awake and aware?
Absolutely. Nitrous oxide is meant to relax your child, not put them to sleep. They’ll remain conscious, able to speak, and aware of everything happening around them.
Does nitrous oxide have any side effects?
Side effects are rare and mild but could include lightheadedness or an upset stomach. Our experienced dentists will monitor your child closely to ensure their comfort and safety.
How long does it take for the effects to wear off?
Most kids recover from nitrous oxide within minutes. By the end of your appointment, your child will be back to normal and ready to continue their day.
Why Families Trust Little Smiles of Washington
At Little Smiles of Washington, our mission is to provide comprehensive dental care for every child, no matter their age or needs—whether they’re infants, adolescents, or patients with special requirements. We have multiple locations in Dardenne Prairie, Hazelwood, and Washington, Missouri, making reliable dental care accessible to families across the region.
What Sets Us Apart:
- State-of-the-art technology: We use digital X-rays for more precise diagnostics with reduced radiation exposure.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: TVs, streaming services, toys, and a “Toy Tower” reward system to keep young patients smiling from start to finish.
- Experienced Team: Our dentists are highly skilled and deeply empathetic, especially when working with anxious or special-needs patients.
- Commitment to Education: Each visit teaches kids the importance of healthy oral habits that last a lifetime. We believe in empowering families with knowledge.
We offer CareCredit financing for added convenience, ensuring no child goes without the care they deserve.
Nitrous Oxide in Greater St. Louis
If you’re searching for a dental practice that combines expertise with a gentle approach, look no further than Little Smiles of Washington. We’re committed to providing the best care possible, including specialized sedation options like nitrous oxide in Greater St. Louis, to make every visit comfortable and stress-free.
Your child’s smile is worth it! Please schedule your appointment today and experience why so many families trust Little Smiles of Washington for their care.