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.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, often referred to as "laughing gas," provides several advantages for patients of all ages, including:
- Stress Reduction:Â Helps reduce anxiety, making dental visits easier for children with dental phobias.
- Pain Management:Â Minimizes discomfort during procedures.
- Quick Recovery:Â Effects wear off quickly, allowing your child to resume normal activities soon after the appointment.
- Safe for All Ages:Â Proven safe and effective for children when administered by trained professionals.
Nitrous Oxide Administration Process
Nitrous oxide is administered through a small mask placed over the nose, allowing your child to breathe in a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Within minutes, they’ll feel relaxed and calm. During the procedure, your child remains awake and responsive but in a stress-free state. Once the treatment is complete, pure oxygen is provided to clear any remaining gas from their system.
Candidates for Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is ideal for children who:
- Experience dental anxiety or fear.
- Struggle with staying still during dental procedures.
- Require lengthy or complex dental treatments.
- Have a sensitive gag reflex.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Your child’s safety is our top priority. Nitrous oxide sedation is widely regarded as one of the safest forms of sedation in dentistry. At Dental Kidz Club, we adhere to strict guidelines, including:
- Monitoring your child’s oxygen levels, heart rate, and overall comfort throughout the procedure.
- Administering the correct dosage tailored to your child’s needs.
- Ensuring the effects wear off before your child leaves the office.
Alternative Sedation Options
If nitrous oxide isn’t suitable for your child, we also offer other sedation methods, such as oral sedation or general anesthesia. We’ll work with you to determine the best option for your child’s comfort and the success of their dental care.
Why Choose Dental Kidz Club?
At Dental Kidz Club, we specialize in creating positive dental experiences for children. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Kid-Friendly Environment: Our offices are designed to make children feel at ease.
- Experienced Team:Â Our trained professionals focus on gentle and compassionate care.
- Comprehensive Services: From preventive care to sedation options, we offer a full range of dental treatments.
- Convenient Locations: With six offices across California, quality dental care is always close by.
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.
What age is appropriate for nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide is safe for children of nearly all ages. It’s typically recommended for children old enough to wear a mask and understand basic instructions.
How long do the effects of nitrous oxide last after the procedure?
The effects wear off quickly, usually within minutes after breathing pure oxygen. Your child can resume normal activities shortly after the appointment.
Are there any dietary restrictions before or after nitrous oxide sedation?
It’s best to avoid heavy meals for a few hours before the procedure. Afterward, your child can eat and drink as usual unless advised otherwise by your dentist.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Dental Kidz Club at any of our convenient locations:
- Corona:Â 951-404-5759
- Covina:Â 626-328-4930
- Ontario:Â 909-978-9757
- Riverside:Â 951-395-0024
- Perris:Â 951-425-4988
- Chino:Â 909-328-6869
