Nitrous Oxide

  Most children are treated safely and successfully in pediatric dental practices.  However, children may feel anxious before and during dental treatment.  Nitrous Oxide is a safe, effective sedative agent which can be used to calm fear and anxiety and to enhance effective communication.  Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases- oxygen and nitrous oxide.  A fitted mask is placed over the nose and as the patient breathes, the uptake of the gasses occurs through the lungs.  When the treatment is over, all the gases are eliminated after a few minutes of breathing only oxygen.  There are special instructions prior to the use of nitrous oxide.  First, the patient should have little to no food to diminish any nausea.  Second, any respiratory conditions which may make breathing through the nose compromised should be discussed.  Third, advise our office if your child is taking any medications prior to the appointment.

IV Sedation/Outpatient General Anesthesia

IV Sedation and Outpatient General Anesthesia are two additional treatment modalities.  Both are very safe and effective in treating the following patients:

• Very young, pre-cooperative
• Extreme anxiety, Fear
• Special Needs
• Medically compromised
• Extensive dental disease

Our office does not offer these options but will refer as needed.