Sedation Dentistry - Garland, TX

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for Children?

Nitrous oxide has been used to make dental care more comfortable for almost two centuries, and the treatment has proven itself to be incredibly safe and effective for children in that large span of time. This colorless, odorless gas induces a sense of calmness and relaxation while reducing sensitivity to pain, and it is eliminated from the body within minutes after the treatment ends. While there are cases of patients experiencing dizziness or queasiness for a little while after the treatment, these effects should disappear very quickly. Nitrous oxide has no known long-term side effects, and you can expect your child to be ready to return to school afterward. However, nitrous oxide is not for everyone, so the dental team at La Prada Family Dentistry of Garland will be sure to evaluate your child’s health and medical history before recommending the treatment.

Will My Child Remember Anything After Receiving Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide does not put children to sleep, so they’ll be able to answer questions and respond to instructions during their treatment. Your child will probably remember their appointment afterward, but they may have difficulty recalling specific details. This can make nitrous oxide especially excellent for kids with dental phobias since it can help prevent the formation of new memories that can make oral healthcare more difficult later.

What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?

Many patients who have received nitrous oxide report that it makes them feel relaxed and calm, and they may experience a sense of well-being or a tingling sensation in their limbs. While nitrous oxide is also called “laughing gas,” it is unlikely that your child will develop a case of the giggles during their appointment.

Does Nitrous Oxide Make Children Tell Secrets?

Nitrous oxide is sometimes portrayed on TV and in movies as causing erratic behavior or hallucinations or as a truth serum that might make someone reveal sensitive information. Fortunately, these comedic depictions are not true to life, and nitrous oxide will not make your child see anything that isn’t there or behave in a way they would not normally. It is highly unlikely that your child will tell any secrets while sedated. Even if your kid does say something silly or embarrassing, the staff at La Prada Family Dentistry of Garland will be sure not to discuss it afterward.

Does Nitrous Oxide Put Kids to Sleep?

Nitrous oxide does not put kids to sleep, but some patients may have difficulty remembering their appointments afterward. This may be beneficial for children who are anxious about oral healthcare since it may prevent them from developing memories that can make dental checkups more difficult later.

What Are the Risks of Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is considered safe for most people, including children, and doesn’t typically cause negative reactions. However, there’s a slight chance that you or your child might experience mild side effects, which can include nausea, grogginess, or headaches.

Thankfully, these symptoms are usually quite brief and dissipate quickly as the medication leaves your system.  

Does Dental Insurance Cover Nitrous Oxide?

Dental insurance can often help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for everything from routine visits to more complex procedures, but unfortunately, most providers consider dental sedation to be a luxury, not a necessity. That means they don’t usually include the cost of nitrous oxide sedation.

However, there’s a chance that your sedation might be covered if it’s deemed medically necessary, like if you have a condition that makes it virtually impossible to sit still or receive dental care otherwise. Our friendly office staff is happy to assist with any insurance questions, claims, and paperwork to help you maximize your available benefits.

How Much Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Usually Cost?

It’s natural to wonder how much you might spend to receive nitrous oxide sedation. Most people pay between $75 and $200 for the first hour, and then it is often billed in 15-minute increments, which might cost $25 to $50 per unit.

But these figures are general estimates; the total cost can vary significantly based on your individual circumstances. For instance, you might pay more if you are undergoing a lengthier procedure or are resistant to the medication. Our team will provide an estimated price for your approval before proceeding.

How Long Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Last?

Are you worried that you’ll need to take off from work or keep your child home from school if you’ve undergone sedation with nitrous oxide? This is sometimes the case with other sedatives, like IV sedation, but when it comes to laughing gas, you can thankfully set your concerns aside. Most people can return to their normal routine following their appointment because the medication only lasts as long as it's being actively inhaled.

Laughing gas is administered through a mask placed over your nose while we work. The effects kick in moments after breathing in the drug, and usually dissipate just as quickly once the mask is removed. We might keep you for a few minutes to make sure that you don’t feel dizzy or nauseated before approving you for checkout.