Laughing gas is one sedation dentistry option Dr. Prajapati may offer to help make you more comfortable during certain procedures. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes oxygen inhalation as a safe and effective technique to reduce anxiety, produce analgesia, and enhance effective communication between a patient and health care provider.
First, Dr. Pajapati will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the laughing gas. You may feel light-headed or a tingling, heavy sensation in your arms and legs. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of laughing gas wear off soon after the mask is removed.
In some treatments, Dr. Prajapati will use the laughing gas to help calm your child, so it helps to get their wiggles out. Laughing gas is not intended to put you to sleep. Your child will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions she may have. This way she can quickly and safely treat your child. Therefore, giving your child a great experience.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) states that Oral Sedation as a dentistry option can help increase cooperation and reduce anxiety and/or discomfort associated with dental treatment. Our doctor will use various medications to sedate a child; medicines will be selected based upon your child’s overall health, level of anxiety, and dental treatment recommendations.
Once the medications have been administered, it may take up to an hour before your child shows signs of sedation and is ready for dental treatment. Most children become relaxed and/or drowsy and may drift into a light sleep from which they can be aroused easily. Unlike general anesthesia, oral sedation is not intended to make a patient unconscious or unresponsive.
Some children may not experience relaxation but an opposite reaction such as agitation or crying. These also are common responses to the medicines and may prevent us from completing the dental procedures. In any case, our staff will observe your child’s response to the medications and provide assistance as needed.