Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is one of the safest forms of sedation available in paediatric dentistry. At Paediatric Dental Home, our specialist paediatric dentists at both our Hoppers Crossing and Geelong practices regularly use this gentle sedation method to help anxious children relax during dental procedures.
The safety profile of laughing gas is well-established, with decades of research supporting its use in children. It's classified as minimal sedation, meaning your child remains fully conscious and maintains all protective reflexes throughout treatment. The gas is mixed with oxygen and administered through a small, comfortable nose mask that allows your child to breathe normally.
How Does Laughing Gas Benefit Your Child?
One of the key benefits of laughing gas is that it works quickly, typically within minutes, and wears off just as rapidly once the mask is removed. This means there are no lingering after-effects, and your child can return to normal activities immediately after the appointment.
Our paediatric specialists are extensively trained in administering laughing gas and will carefully monitor your child throughout the procedure. The dosage can be precisely adjusted to achieve just the right level of relaxation while ensuring your child remains responsive and cooperative.
While most children tolerate laughing gas extremely well, we always conduct a thorough medical history review before recommending it. Children with certain respiratory conditions or specific medical concerns may be better suited to alternative comfort measures, which our team can discuss with you.
The use of laughing gas often helps children develop positive associations with dental visits, as they experience comfort and sometimes a pleasant tingling sensation or feeling of warmth rather than anxiety. Many children leave their appointments with no memory of any discomfort.
Contact Paediatric Dental Home
At Paediatric Dental Home, we prioritise both the physical and emotional well-being of our young patients. If you have questions about laughing gas or other comfort options at our Hoppers Crossing or Geelong dental clinics, our friendly team is happy to provide more information.
