Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is a safe way to help reduce anxiety surrounding dental treatments. While children typically recover quickly, there are some side effects to be aware of.
Short-Term Nitrous Oxide Side Effects in Kids
Most children who undergo nitrous oxide dental sedation don’t experience any side effects. If your child does react to the sedative, they may exhibit symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Shivering
- Excessive sweating
Additionally, your child may appear slightly disoriented or irritable after their procedure. These effects often fade after a few minutes and do not result in any long-term issues.
In most cases, your child will receive oxygen for a few minutes after their procedure, which helps clear the remaining gas. This extra oxygen also helps your child become more alert faster and can prevent symptoms like headaches.
Long-Term Nitrous Oxide Side Effects in Children
Most side effects from nitrous oxide reverse themselves relatively quickly, and it is rare for long-term side effects of nitrous oxide in children to occur. In the slight chance that your child experiences effects such as memory loss, limb spasms or an irregular heartbeat, it’s best to speak to a doctor as soon as possible.
A Safe Dental Procedure Option
Before your child undergoes nitrous oxide sedation, our dentists will take the time to discuss their medical history. Once we have all of the appropriate medical information, our team will determine if sedation is the right option for your child’s dental needs.
Receiving nitrous oxide is a safe dental option, and the gas is one of the mildest forms of sedation. When undergoing this sedation, your child will likely feel relaxed and comfortable and not overly drowsy.
Since nitrous oxide is so mild, the effects will fade as soon as our team removes your child’s mask or we give them oxygen for a few minutes. As a result, your child will be ready to get back on their feet and walk out to see you in the waiting room within a few minutes of their appointment being over.
Schedule an Appointment With Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
If you’re looking for patient and compassionate orthodontic treatment, the team at Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here for you. Dr. Dana Fox and Dr. Paul Fox both specialize in treating children and adolescents, and we will ensure your child feels comfortable at every step of the process.
To learn more about our pediatric dentistry service offerings, schedule an appointment at our Portland, Oregon, office today!
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.
