At Salthouse Smiles in St. Louis, MO, we understand that visiting the dentist can feel intimidating for children—and often for their parents, too. That’s why we’re proud to offer a safe, effective solution to reduce anxiety and create positive dental experiences: nitrous oxide sedation, also known as “laughing gas.”
As a trusted tool in pediatric dentistry, nitrous oxide helps children stay calm and relaxed during treatment while remaining awake and responsive. Whether it’s your child’s first visit or a routine procedure, nitrous oxide can make dental care more comfortable and less stressful—for everyone involved.
What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative administered through a small nose mask. It’s a colorless, odorless gas that takes effect within minutes, helping your child feel light, calm, and sometimes even a little giggly—hence the nickname “laughing gas.”
The key benefit of nitrous oxide is that it helps reduce dental anxiety while allowing your child to stay fully conscious. This means your child can respond to simple instructions but feels relaxed and at ease during the entire appointment.
Once the procedure is complete, we switch to pure oxygen for a few minutes to flush out the nitrous oxide. Most children feel back to normal right away and can return to school or other activities the same day.
Why Nitrous Oxide Is Great for Kids
Many children experience nervousness, restlessness, or fear when they visit the dentist—especially during procedures that take longer than a regular cleaning. Nitrous oxide is an excellent option to help ease those fears while supporting a safe and cooperative visit.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide for Pediatric Patients:
- Reduces anxiety and fear
- Works quickly and wears off fast
- Safe for most children
- Non-invasive and needle-free
- Helps kids stay still and relaxed
- Allows for better communication between the dentist and child
Unlike deeper forms of sedation, nitrous oxide is extremely gentle, making it a perfect choice for children who may be a little anxious but don’t require general anesthesia.
When Is Nitrous Oxide Used?
At Salthouse Smiles, we use nitrous oxide for a variety of pediatric dental procedures. Our team may recommend it if your child:
- Feels anxious about dental visits
- Has difficulty sitting still during treatment
- Needs a filling, extraction, or crown
- Has a sensitive gag reflex
- Is undergoing a longer or more involved procedure
Nitrous oxide can also help children with special needs who may benefit from a more calming experience in the dental chair.
What to Expect During a Visit with Nitrous Oxide
Your child’s safety and comfort are our top priorities. Before recommending nitrous oxide, we’ll talk with you about your child’s health history and any medications or conditions that may affect sedation.
Here’s what the process typically looks like:
- Pre-visit discussion: We’ll explain how nitrous oxide works, what to expect, and answer any questions you or your child may have.
- Mask placement: Your child will wear a small mask over their nose and breathe normally.
- Relaxation: Within a few minutes, your child will begin to feel calm and content.
- Treatment: We perform the dental procedure while your child stays relaxed and cooperative.
- Recovery: Afterward, we provide 100% oxygen to clear the nitrous oxide from the body. Your child will return to normal within minutes.
Most children experience no side effects, though some may feel slightly lightheaded or tingly during sedation. We’ll monitor your child throughout the visit to ensure a safe and positive experience.
Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for Children?
Yes—nitrous oxide has been used safely in dentistry for over 100 years and is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). It’s one of the safest sedation options available, with minimal risk and a long track record of success.
At Salthouse Smiles, we use the lowest effective dose for your child’s needs and constantly monitor their response. You can rest easy knowing your child is in expert hands.
Creating Positive Dental Experiences from the Start
One of our goals at Salthouse Smiles is to help children build healthy habits and positive feelings about dental care early in life. Sedation options like nitrous oxide support that goal by reducing fear and discomfort, making it easier for your child to return with confidence for future visits.
A calm, cooperative visit not only helps us deliver great care—it helps your child feel proud of themselves afterward. That’s a win for everyone.
Have Questions About Nitrous Oxide?
Every child is different, and we’re here to help you make informed choices about their dental care. If you’d like to learn more about nitrous oxide or find out if it’s right for your child, we’re happy to talk through the options and answer any concerns you may have.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover how sedation dentistry can make your child’s next visit to the dentist easier and more enjoyable.
