Parents are always rightfully concerned about their children anytime they undergo a procedure. Dental procedures carry less risk than other medical procedures and are typically routine but sedation may pose new worries.
Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is one of four types of sedation available to dentists. The others are oral medication, an IV drip medication, and general anesthesia. Laughing gas is the least intense or lightest of the options.
Nitrous oxide is also the safest of the options and the best option for children. Dentists state it is safe for children of all ages.
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas that is naturally present in the atmosphere, although it’s in much lower quantities naturally. The quantities in the atmosphere are far less than other gases like carbon dioxide or methane so it has no effects on humans in its natural state.
This compound is made up of nitrogen and oxygen. It can make people feel light-headed or even high. Dentists and medical professionals use it in sedation because it gives patients a pleasant feeling while they, for the most part, remain awake.
Laughing gas is administered through a nose tube so the child breathes it in. Their mouth isn’t covered so the dentist can perform the procedure.
The staff will wake up the child by giving them oxygen instead of the laughing gas at the end of the procedure. Some children start waking up the minute the gas tube is removed from their nose and they start breathing room air.
It’s also important to know that staff can wake up the child if there is an emergency where their safety is at risk. This rarely occurs but is possible. That means your child is always safe while under this sedation technique.
What Happens to Children on Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas makes children relaxed and sleepy. They will be in a dreamy or floaty state but are aware of what is happening during the procedure. They just won’t care.
Their body temperature may feel a little warmer than usual but it is only a slight temperature change and doesn’t make them uncomfortable. Another sensation is tingling in their hands and feet like their limbs are falling asleep.
One thing to be aware of with children on laughing gas is they may be forgetful even after they wake up. They may not remember going to the dentist or the procedure even though they were technically awake throughout the whole thing.
Other Benefits of Laughing Gas
Dentists prefer nitrous oxide over other options for children for other reasons beyond safety. It is less frightening to smaller children than taking pills or getting a needle in your arm for an IV drip. It’s painless and easy to administer.
Laughing gas has a quick effect but also wears off quickly. Children will start to become more coherent after they start breathing room air. Most dentists give the child oxygen to bring them out of the sedation after using laughing gas.
Most children, especially older ones, should be able to walk out of the office and to the car after a procedure using laughing gas. The effects wear off fast so you won’t see much of a change in your child, although they may be forgetful or look like they just got up from a nap.
What Are the Side Effects?
The side effects of laughing gas are minimal, and many children don’t experience any side effects. Possible side effects include a headache or mild nausea. A small percentage of children experience those effects and the side effects don’t last long.
Parents should watch their children for any side effects after they have laughing gas. Give them water to offset any nausea. Keep them hydrated, especially if they vomit. You can give them clear liquids, diluted fruit loops, ice, gelatin, or clear soup. The most important thing is to keep them hydrated until they feel better.
One element of concern is if the child throws up more than twice the first hour after treatment. Consult your dentist if that happens.
The grogginess left by the laughing gas means your child should remain out of school for the rest of the day. They will likely want to nap and should stay hydrated. However, they can go back to school the next day without any side effects.
Talk to Your Dentist
The best thing to do if you are concerned about how sedation may affect your child is to talk to the dentist about your specific situation. We must have a parent’s consent to use sedation or carry out a procedure so we want to ensure you are both knowledgeable and comfortable with our recommendations.
Call our office today and schedule an exam for your child to ensure their oral care is on track
