Because pediatric dentists specialize in treating children, we make children feel special, and our office is especially designed for children. Staff members choose to work in a pediatric dental office because they like kids. As a result of these things, most children are calm, comfortable, and confident in a good pediatric dental office.

Sometimes, however, a child feels anxious during treatment. Your child may need more support than a gentle, caring manner to feel more comfortable. A combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen is a safe, effective technique to calm a child's fear of dental treatment.

What is nitrous oxide/oxygen?
Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. When inhaled, it is absorbed by the body and has a calming affect. Breathing pure oxygen at the end of the appointment eliminates nitrous oxide from the body within minutes.

How will my child feel while breathing nitrous oxide/oxygen?
Your child will smell a sweet, pleasant aroma and experience a sense of well being and relaxation. If your child is worried by the sights, sounds, or sensations of dental treatment, he or she may respond more positively with the use of nitrous oxide/oxygen.

How safe is nitrous oxide/oxygen?
It is very safe. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is perhaps the safest sedative in dentistry. It is non- addictive. It is mild, easily taken, and then quickly eliminated by the body. Your child remains fully conscious and will keep all of his natural reflexes when breathing the nitrous oxide/oxygen.

Are there any special instructions for nitrous oxide/oxygen?
Our staff will give you any specific instructions regarding eating or any other specifics concerning your child’s visit. Please inform our staff about any respiratory condition that makes breathing through your child’s nose difficult. It may limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide/oxygen. Also inform us if your child is taking any medication on the day of the appointment.

Will nitrous oxide/oxygen work for all children?
Pediatric dentists know that all children are not alike!  Every service is tailored to your child as an individual. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is not effective for some children, especially for those who have severe anxiety, nasal congestion, extensive treatment needs, or discomfort wearing a nasal mask. We have comprehensive training and can offer other sedation methods that are right for your child.