Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide “Laughing Gas”

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry endorses the use of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation therapy as a safe and effective technique to reduce anxiety and decrease pain in children.

The gas (a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen) is administered by inhaling a sweet, pleasant aroma through a nasal mask. Laughing gas is considered a form of “conscious sedation” because patients will still be awake, but they will feel relaxed and, in some cases, drowsy.

Your child will be able to breathe normally and respond to verbal cues from our dentists, but they will feel no pain. Depending on the level and form of sedation received, the patient may not remember the visit at all.

Nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedative treatments in pediatric sedation dentistry. It has a rapid onset, and the effects wear off almost immediately. If necessary, it can be used in combination with other sedative agents.