Dental Kidz Club
Pediatric Dentistry located in Brea, Corona, Covina, Ontario, Riverside, Chino, & Perris, CA
If your child needs a dental procedure or has a fear of dentists generally, you might be tempted to put off what could be a scary experience. But before you do, reach out to Dental Kidz Club. Pediatric dentist Jihee Chun, DDS, and the skilled team have years of experience in calming anxious children. One method involves using nitrous oxide — an extremely safe sedative that promotes a feeling of calm and euphoria. Dental Kidz Club has offices in Perris, Brea, Corona, Covina, Ontario, Chino, and Riverside, California. Call any office to find out more and request a consultation.
Nitrous Oxide Q & A
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide/oxygen is an extremely safe sedative, two-parts oxygen to one-part nitrogen, that dental professionals use to help soothe a child when undergoing treatment. It allows the child to remain calm while fully conscious and able to communicate with their dental team.
When is nitrous oxide used?
Many children feel anxious when at the dentist. Fear may cause them to have a bad experience, which can have a lasting effect. Nitrous oxide safely calms them down and encourages positive feelings ahead of the next appointment.
The team at Dental Kidz Club may also use nitrous oxide if your child has a strong gag reflex. Many children hate having something placed in their mouth, and a gag reflex can interfere with treatment. Nitrous oxide prevents this reaction, allowing the dentist to complete an examination quickly, with no interruptions.
Is nitrous oxide safe?
Nitrous oxide is extremely safe — many dentists consider it the safest sedative. It takes effect quickly, is easy to administer in appropriate dosages, is reversible, and doesn't cause an allergic reaction.
Your child remains conscious the whole time and in full control of their breathing and body movements. They can also talk and respond to questions or instructions.
Nitrous oxide can also be used with other sedatives, and the team at Dental Kidz Club may combine it with oral sedation if appropriate.
How does nitrous oxide make a child feel?
Preparing a child for nitrous oxide means they know what to expect on the day, which can ease any worries they may have.
Your dentist places a mask over your child's nose and encourages them to take deep breaths. As your child breathes in the nitrous oxide, they'll smell a pleasant, sweet aroma and gradually feel sleepy and dreamy.
Although still aware of everything going on around them, they'll be in a state of warm relaxation and may feel a tingling in their arms and legs. Many children become forgetful and don't even remember the procedure afterward.
It's common for parents or guardians to feel anxious or uncomfortable about the thought of their child having sedation. Nitrous oxide is a safe way for a child to have a great experience when having dental treatment. Call Dental Kidz Club today to find out more and request an appointment.
