Safe nitrous oxide sedation helps anxious children relax during dental treatment. Wears off in minutes. Waterdown Kids Dentistry, (289) 799-3355.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is the most widely used sedative in pediatric dentistry, and for good reason. It takes effect within minutes, keeps your child awake and able to respond, and clears from the body almost as quickly once the gas is stopped. Children describe it as feeling floaty, tingly or giggly. It reduces anxiety and takes the edge off discomfort without putting anyone to sleep.
many children pick a scent for it.
Your child breathes normally through their nose while we work.
Effects begin within about five minutes and we adjust the level throughout.
At the end, pure oxygen is given for a few minutes to clear it completely.
Your child can usually return to school the same day and eat normally.
Nitrous oxide has an excellent safety record in children when administered by trained practitioners with proper monitoring. Your child remains conscious and responsive throughout. Side effects are uncommon and mild: occasionally nausea, which is why we ask for a light meal rather than a heavy one beforehand. It is not suitable for children with a blocked nose, certain respiratory conditions, or some other specific medical histories, which is why we review health history carefully first.
No. They stay awake, aware and able to talk to us the whole time.
Almost none. The gas clears within minutes and most children carry on with a normal day.
A light meal about two hours before is ideal, not a full stomach, not an empty one.
We are welcoming founding families ahead of our September 2026 opening in Waterdown.