What Is Nitrous Oxide? Should My Child Have It During Their Dental Appointment?

Some kids just get anxious when they visit the dentist. Other kids have a hard time sitting still during certain dental procedures. When you take your child to thedentist in Fort Collins, CO, they need to be still and quiet during their dental appointment to avoid injury. It’s also important for your child to sit quietly through their dental appointment to ensure that the dentist can complete all the tasks necessary to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

For some children, nitrous oxide is an important tool during these procedures. As a parent, it’s only natural that you would have questions about nitrous oxide and its use in dentistry. Here’s what you should know.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas that can be delivered to dental patients through a mask. Once the nitrous oxide is inhaled, it takes effect almost immediately. Once the mask is removed, the effects of nitrous oxide begin to wear off immediately. This means your child can return to school or engage in normal activities after their dental appointment.

Who Benefits from Nitrous Oxide?

Dentists use nitrous oxide for patients who feel anxious during their dental appointments. This can help pediatric patients sit still and cooperate with the dentist. Nitrous oxide can also be used for some special needs patients to help make theirdentist appointment in Fort Collins, CO, successful. Finally, nitrous oxide can be used in long dental procedures to help your child stay comfortable throughout.

Who Should Decide When to Use Nitrous Oxide?

Your child’s dentist will most likely suggest nitrous oxide if they think your child could benefit from it. However, if you’re wondering whether nitrous oxide would be a good tool for your child, you can bring it up with your child’s dentist at their next dental appointment.

What Other Forms of Sedation Dentistry May My Child’s Dentist Use?

Other forms of sedation dentistry include sedation taken by oral tablet and sedation administered via IV. Your child’s dentist at Big Grins will let you know which form of sedation is best for your child. Have questions? We want to help. Call today to speak with one of our dental professionals.