At Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry, we want every one of our young patients to feel safe and comfortable during their time with us. We understand that some kids are anxious and fearful about dental visits. We are pleased to offer a range of sedation dentistry options, including laughing gas, to help your child relax while receiving outstanding dental care.

What Is Laughing Gas?

Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide sedation, is the most common form of sedation used in pediatric dentistry to provide anxiety-free dental care. It involves breathing nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen through a small mask placed on the nose. That will induce a calm and relaxed state, but your child will remain awake and responsive throughout treatment.

Is Laughing Gas Safe?

Laughing gas has been used for dental procedures in children for many years, and its safety and effectiveness have been established and well-documented. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the use of nitrous oxide sedation as a safe way to help children relax during dental treatment.

Our team at Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry strictly follows the AAPD guidelines for administering laughing gas for your child’s safety. Before sedation, we will ask about your child’s medical history, current medications, respiratory conditions, or recent ear infections. We use audio and video safety features during treatment to monitor your child closely. Your child’s safety is always our topmost priority.

Who Is a Candidate for Laughing Gas?

Laughing gas is a safe and effective sedation option for children who are anxious and need a little help relaxing during dental procedures. Candidates for laughing gas may include those who have difficulty sitting still for long, have a strong gag reflex, require complex or lengthy procedures, or have previous traumatic dental experiences.

Laughing gas is also beneficial for children with special behavioral or medical needs. Our team at Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry will evaluate your child’s unique needs and recommend the ideal sedation dentistry option for stress-free dental care.

How Does Laughing Gas Help?

Laughing gas helps create a calm and relaxed state, taking the edge off dental visits and allowing your child to relax in the dentist’s chair. Here are some of the reasons laughing gas is helpful to our young patients:

• Reduced Anxiety: Laughing gas has a euphoric effect, reducing fear and anxiety.
• Less Pain: Nitrous oxide sedation dulls the perception of pain, so, combined with local anesthesia, your child will enjoy pain-free dental care.
• No Needles: Laughing gas is administered through a mask, so your child will not need any shots or needles.
• Customizable Dose: The level of nitrous oxide sedation is customized and easily adjusted based on your child’s unique needs for the best and safest experience.
• Improved Cooperation: Laughing gas helps children cooperate during dental procedures, making the process easier for both the dentist and your child.
• Quick Recovery: Nitrous oxide sedation takes effect quickly and wears off right after removing the mask, so your child can return to normal activities without interruption.
• Fewer Dental Appointments: Laughing gas makes it easier to complete more dental procedures in fewer appointments.
• Proven Safety Record: Laughing gas has been shown to be safe when administered by trained dental professionals.
• Improved Dental Experience: Reducing anxiety helps create a more positive association with the dentist, improving the outlook on future dental care.

Laughing Gas Near Me in Glendale, AZ

Visit Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our anxiety-free dental care. Our kid-centered team is committed to ensuring your child leaves our office looking forward to the next visit. We are all about setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Call us at 623-322-2277 to schedule your child’s appointment today!