Pediatric Sedation Dentistry: FAQs About “Laughing Gas” 

Often referred to as “laughing gas” for its association with a sort-of giddy, giggly state, nitrous oxide gas is one of the most commonly used types of sedation for pediatric patients. Younger children can be especially prone to dental fear and anxiety, so mild sedation can be extremely beneficial for the child and the dentist providing treatment. As a parent, you are naturally going to have questions about laughing gas, its safety, and how it is used.

Is laughing gas safe?

Laughing gas is considered a safe treatment for most pediatric patients. It simply promotes a more relaxed state and may induce a bit of a euphoric feeling. While extremely rare, some children may experience side effects with the sedating gas, such as shivering, mild nausea, or sweating. The gas is not known to cause long-term side effects. To ensure the safety of the treatment for your child, the dentist will discuss any concerns you may have and thoroughly examine your child’s allergies and medical history.

How is the sedative administered to the child?

Nitrous oxide gas is administered via the respiratory system. The dentist will place a “nose hood” over the child’s nose, which delivers the gas through small internal outlets so it will naturally be inhaled as your child breathes. The nose hood is worn throughout the treatment.

How long will the effects of the laughing gas last?

Laughing gas is a fast-acting sedative, which means the effects tend to also subside rather quickly. Usually, your child will be back to a more alert state within a few minutes of removing the nose hood. Some children may experience a bit of grogginess after the treatment, but even that effect should subside quickly.

Work with a Good Pediatric Dentist in Victorville

When used appropriately, mild sedation is an invaluable tool for pediatric dental treatments for younger children. As your child gets older, they will naturally grow to be more comfortable in the dentist’s chair and sedation will no longer be involved. If you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Victorville, CA, reach out to us at the office of Dr. A. Paul S. Bell, D.D.S.

Why Dental Implants Might Be the Solution to Your Less-Than-Dazzling Smile

Is your smile missing its dazzle factor? If you have missing, stained, or broken teeth, you may be reluctant to smile even when you’re happiest. Worry about the condition of your teeth can control how you appear to others. Fortunately, dental implants will fix this problem quite easily. Let Dr. Paul S. Bell at A Paul S Bell, DDS Inc in Victorville, CA, show you how.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are prosthetic devices that look and function just like natural teeth. They’re held in place by titanium posts that have been implanted and allowed to bond with the bone beneath your gums. Dental implants are attractive, permanent solutions to lost or extracted teeth. They’ll brighten your smile and help prevent future bone loss. Best of all, they look natural. No one will know dental implants aren’t your real teeth unless you tell them.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people are good candidates for dental implant procedure, but there may be exclusions in the following instances:

  • You smoke.
  • There is a chronic condition such as diabetes involved.
  • You have insufficient bone mass left.
  • Gum disease is prevalent.

In many instances, just because you can’t get dental implants right away doesn’t mean you can’t have the procedure performed later. Talk with your dental professional and primary care physician if you have a medical condition that discourages dental implants.

Are Dental Implants a Same-Day Procedure?

Dental implants are not a quick fix. Your dentist will have to take a cast of your teeth first. They may also have to extract problem teeth before beginning the implant process. You should expect the whole procedure to encompass several months at the minimum. Once the titanium post is implanted in your gum, it needs time the bond with the bone. Your mouth must heal between each step of the dental implant process. But it will all be worth it in the end when you emerge with your fabulous new smile.

See Dr. Paul S. Bell Today

If you think dental implants may be the solution to your current situation, call Dr. Paul S. Bell today to schedule an initial consultation. Our practice will up your smile factor using simple dental implant procedures that change the way you face the world.

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