Is your child about to undergo a dental procedure? Nitrous oxide is an effective and safe way to help your child feel comfortable and calm during their visit.
Since this gas does not stay in the system very long, aftercare is minimal. However, you can still help your child recover from their dental procedure — and take joy in their new smile!
Nitrous Oxide Aftercare Instructions
Once nitrous oxide is no longer inhaled, it wears off in a few minutes. Most patients do not experience side effects with this type of dental sedation. Although very rare, side effects are possible and may include headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Know that these are only temporary and usually subside quickly once the effect of nitrous oxide diminishes.
You can help care for your kid after sedation with the following tips:
- Encourage them to rest: It’s normal to feel a little sleepy after the excitement of a dental procedure, with or without nitrous oxide — and that’s OK. Plan for your child to get plenty of rest after their appointment. This may mean they’ll need to take the day off from school, daycare or sports. Have some movies picked out and enjoy a staycation together.
- Help them ease back into eating and drinking: Following the procedure, your child’s mouth might be numb for an hour or two, and they may get an upset stomach if they eat too much too soon. Help them ease into eating and drinking by starting with a small amount of liquid. When they’re ready to eat, we recommend feeding them soft foods, like scrambled eggs. Watch them eat to ensure they don’t bite their cheek or tongue.
If your child develops a fever or any other symptoms you’re concerned about, call their dentist or physician right away.
Dental Surgery Aftercare for Kids
Aftercare aims to reduce post-surgery pain and help your child experience a smooth recovery. Here’s how you can help:
- Have meals prepared: It could be a few days until your child can eat solid foods. Stock up on soft foods they enjoy beforehand to be ready when you hear, “I’m hungry!”
- Fill any prescriptions immediately: Their dentist may prescribe pain medication to help them through recovery. Get these prescriptions filled as soon as possible to keep your little one comfortable.
- Follow aftercare instructions: You’ll receive detailed instructions to help you care for your kid after the sedation required for the dental surgery. It’s essential to follow these instructions closely and call your child’s dentist if you have any questions.
Call Us Today for More Information
At Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand that a dental procedure may be the first time your child receives nitrous oxide. We’re here to ensure you and your child feel comfortable and confident throughout the procedure and during aftercare.
Contact us today if you have any questions about our pediatric dental services or wish to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Dana grew up in Portland and went to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA for dental school. She then moved to Anchorage, AK for her residency in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Dana takes a holistic approach to pediatric dentistry & is able to use her own parenting experience to sympathize and understand each family’s unique dynamic.