Children often report that they feel a little nervous about going to see the dentist. This trepidation is often due to poor previous experiences or taunting by their peers about dental visits. Sometimes they may have gotten the idea that the dentist is scary from the media. Whatever the reason, children experiencing dental anxiety may have difficulty remaining calm at the dentist. Severe dental anxiety can result in hyperventilation and paralyzing fear in patients of all ages. Nitrous oxide may help young patients relax while receiving dental care.

How Nitrous Oxide Makes Dental Care Less Nerve-wracking

Science first introduced nitrous oxide to the dental industry in the 1800s. It was developed by scientists at the time and discovered to be capable of producing a mild euphoric state. Those in this state were calm and were better able to tolerate mild discomfort. Dentists developed new techniques for delivering this gas to patients in the intervening years. Modern methods of applying nitrous oxide can deliver the gas in designated quantities. This makes it safer, more effective, and more convenient for patients and dentists.

One feature of nitrous oxide that has helped it maintain its place as a popular form of mild sedation is its lack of side effects. The side effects that are reported are extremely mild. They include mild headaches and nausea in those individuals who are sensitive to it. It’s also favored due to the very short recovery time involved. The patient will return to normal within minutes of removing the nitrous oxide. While under the effect of the gas, the patient will be able to respond to the dentist while remaining calm. The patient will only feel a bit giddy and lightheaded under heavy application. Some fall asleep while under the influence due to being very relaxed.  

Benefits and Effects of Nitrous Oxide:

• Ongoing Communication – Patients of all ages are able to continue to speak with the dentist and cooperate with their requests while under the effects of nitrous oxide. This is because the patient remains conscious while receiving care.
• Short Recovery Times – Recovery from nitrous oxide is quick and has no lingering side effects. This means they’ll be able to return to their daily activities without ill effect. 
• Minimal Side Effects – When nitrous oxide is used, there are almost no side effects. The limited amount of side effects help it maintain its popularity. 

Quick, easy, and safe to apply, it’s a great sedative for patients of all ages. 

Speak To Your Dental Provider About Nitrous Oxide

If you’d like to get more information about nitrous oxide as a sedation dentistry option. They’ll help you understand when the use of sedation dentistry is appropriate. Contact your dental office to arrange a consultation and discuss your child’s treatment needs. Dental anxiety can create lifelong issues with receiving appropriate dental care. Finding methods to overcome it early means you can help your child start overcoming their fear by developing positive experiences early in life.