Pediatric Dentist in Apopka: We Utilize Nitrous Oxide If Needed

Researchers estimate that over 23% of children and adolescents worldwide experience some level of dental anxiety. Unfortunately, this anxiety can make it harder for parents to support their children's dental health. These children may be unwilling to go to the dentist for important appointments.

If you're worried about your child's next appointment with their pediatric dentist in Apopka, we want to put your mind at ease. We offer all of our patients nitrous oxide if necessary.

Read on to learn all about nitrous oxide so you can make an informed choice for your child.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a form of sedation that's common in dentists' offices. Most people know it by its more common and "fun" name: laughing gas. This name makes it less scary for children as well.

Unlike full sedation, nitrous oxide doesn't put patients to sleep. Instead, it puts them in a happy and calm state that allows them to experience dental procedures without any pain or anxiety. The patient stays awake the entire time, but the procedure may feel like it goes by in moments.

Before the procedure, the patient will breathe in the nitrous oxide from a special machine. The dentist can adjust nitrous oxide levels to make sure that the patient is in a perfectly sedated state.

At the end of the procedure, the patient breathes in pure oxygen to clear out the nitrous oxide and return to normal. The effects of nitrous oxide don't tend to linger, so patients can return to their normal activities right away.

Why Is Nitrous Oxide Beneficial for Pediatric Dentistry?

So why do pediatric dentists use nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is excellent for keeping children calm and helping them fight dental fear. As we mentioned before, many children experience dental fear and anxiety, but with nitrous oxide, their appointments can be painless and anxiety-free.

Even children who aren't afraid of the dentist may be afraid of needles. In the event that a child needs local anesthetic for a dental procedure, the nitrous oxide will turn a scary needle prick into a quick and easy experience.

It also allows children to sit still for longer. Children are naturally impatient, but certain dental appointments can last for a long time, even for common dental issues. Nitrous oxide allows dentists to work on their patients for as long as is necessary.

Nitrous oxide is extra beneficial for children with special needs. These children may get overstimulated in the dentist's chair, but nitrous oxide can soothe them.

All in all, nitrous oxide helps dentists reach their goal of improving dental health for their young patients.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?

Many parents worry about the safety of nitrous oxide, but don't worry. It's a safe form of sedation when it's administered by professionals.

There's very little evidence to support the idea that nitrous oxide, for medical use, has long-term side effects. There are potential short-term side effects, but they're minimal. They include:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Chills

Most of the time, these side effects will wear off as soon as the patient clears the nitrous oxide from their system. Parents don't need to worry.

Do You Need a Pediatric Dentist in Apopka?

If your child is in need of some dental work, don't worry. Nitrous oxide is available, effective, and safe. Any good dentist for children will ensure that their young patients are comfortable and pain-free during their procedures.



If you're ready to start scheduling a dental appointment for your child, we want to hear from you! Contact us at Baptiste Dentistry for Kids today.