Nitrous Oxide Sedation for Children – Birmingham, AL

Keeping Your Child Calm During Their Visit

Dental anxiety is common among children. From the sights, sounds, smells, and fear of pain they may experience, your child may come up with every excuse to avoid their upcoming appointment. Fortunately, Dr. Angelica Rohner, who is a sedation dentist in Birmingham, has a solution that will not only ensure they receive the dental care they need but also relax and keep them calm during their visit. What is it? Nitrous oxide sedation! To find out more about this beneficial and effective method of sedation, we invite you to review the following information. You can contact our office to schedule an appointment or inquire about additional information concerning nitrous oxide and your child.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation that combines nitrous oxide and oxygen. Its colorless and odorless mixture is proven safe and effective at helping children relax during their dental appointments, allowing the dentist to complete treatment more easily and without interruption.

When children feel anxious or scared about their dental visit, nitrous oxide can help to calm their nerves and make them comfortable. They may even feel as if they are floating as they inhale the mixture. But do not worry, your child will not be asleep or what is known as “fully sedated.” Instead, they will remain cognizant enough to respond to the cues of our dental team.

How Can Nitrous Oxide Help My Child?

When seeing a children’s dentist about nitrous oxide sedation, you will be doing the right thing for your child, and here’s why:

Nearly 1/3 of individuals who are afraid of the dentist often skip their regular appointments. As a result, this leads to an increased risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious problems. In children, this continued fear can cause improper bite alignments to form as well as cavities and without proper treatment, resulting in timely and costly procedures in the future.

By allowing your child to receive nitrous oxide during their appointments, not only does it ensure their smile remains healthy and free of decay, disease, and other abnormalities, but it also gives them greater peace of mind knowing they will feel no pain or discomfort while seeing the dentist.

The process is simple. Dr. Rohner will have your child wear a mask over their nose, which they will then begin to inhale the nitrous oxide and oxygen solution. In minutes, your child will begin to feel lightheaded and more relaxed. Once Dr. Rohner believes your child is in the proper state, she will begin to administer treatment.

One of the best things about nitrous oxide is that your child will be unlikely to experience any negative side effects. Also, they can resume normal activity once the gas is turned off and effects subside, which is usually within minutes. Your child’s dentist will provide them with pure oxygen to ensure all remaining nitrous oxide is cleared out of their system before they leave.

Nitrous Oxide FAQs

Are you looking for a sedation dentist in Birmingham? If so, Dr. Rohner and our team are here to ensure your child remains safe and comfortable while receiving nitrous oxide. Although it is considered the mildest form of sedation, we understand, as a parent, you probably have many questions about the process and any possible side effects your child might face. Below is a list of commonly asked questions from our patients we hope you will review. If you do not see your question listed, please don’t hesitate to contact our team to schedule an appointment.

Is nitrous oxide safe?

Yes, nitrous oxide is very safe for children. Not only do the effects come on quickly, but they dissipate just as fast, allowing your child to resume normal activity shortly after their visit. Also, your child will not be completely asleep, which means they will remain cognizant enough to respond to cues by our dental team. Dr. Rohner will continuously monitor the amount of nitrous oxide your child receives and is capable of making adjustments, if necessary.

Should my child eat before receiving nitrous oxide?

It is actually best if you do not give your child anything to eat several hours before their dental appointment. You’ll also want to make sure that we are aware of any medical conditions, health issues, or medications they are taking that could cause nitrous oxide to be less effective for your child. By taking these preemptive steps, it will ensure they remain safe and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Can all children receive nitrous oxide?

While most children will not experience any problems with nitrous oxide, there are cases where it may be less effective on some. If your child experiences severe dental anxiety, does not like to have objects placed on or around their nose, or is suffering from nasal congestion, this method of sedation may not be possible. Upon review of your child’s current health and medical history, Dr. Rohner will determine if they are eligible to receive nitrous oxide during their visit.

What can I do to prepare my child before their appointment?

One of the most effective ways to keep your child calm before their visit is to use positive and encouraging wording. When talking about the dentist’s office and their appointment, remind them of the importance of good oral hygiene and how the dentist can help ensure they maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. When discussing the process of receiving nitrous oxide, talk to your child about the necessity of wearing a device over their nose that will allow them to feel calm and relaxed. Remind them there is nothing to be afraid of and that the dentist is their friend.