Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous Oxide/ Oxygen inhalation is a safe and effective way to reduce anxiety and pain for dental patients. It also helps to establish an effective communication between the patient and the dental care provider which is the main factor in a positive dental visit. Anxiety and anticipation of dental treatment can be assisted by psychological methods. However, when treating children who are receiving dental treatment pharmacological approaches are commonly necessary. The risk for nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation analgesia is minimal. Patients have stable vital signs, no significant risk of losing protective reflexes and the patients return to pre-procedure mobility. If your child is 16 and has a driver’s license, it will be safe for her to drive back home after receiving this type of anxiety control. There are some contraindications to treatment with nitrous oxide/oxygen such as treatment with bleomycin sulfate and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is extremely important that you provide a complete and updated medical history at your dental appointment so we can address any concerns you may have. The most important factor in success for dental treatment is a clear line of communication between the patient and dental care provider, so we ask that you be a silent observer when present with your child during the dental appointment. We will be happy to further discuss any other questions with the use of nitrous oxide and oxygen at your dental appointment.