Nitrous oxide
Also called laughing gas. Your child breathes it with oxygen through a small nose hood to feel calmer during dental work. They stay awake.
During the visit
Your child can hear and respond to the dentist. They may feel warm, light, or tingly. The team watches them and gives oxygen afterward. A numbing shot may still be needed.
After the visit
The gas wears off quickly. The team checks that your child feels back to normal before leaving. Follow any extra rules if other medicines were also used.
Good to know
Some children feel sick to their stomach. Follow the clinic’s meal advice, and tell them about a stuffy nose, health conditions, or medicines. It does not work well if your child cannot breathe through their nose.
Pediatric dentist-backed sources
This page is for learning, not for finding or treating a health problem. Your child’s dentist knows your child best.