Nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas, is one of the safest and most widely used forms of sedation in children's dentistry. It is a mild gas, mixed with oxygen and breathed in through a small mask over the nose, that helps a nervous child feel calm and a little dreamy during treatment. It has been used in paediatric dentistry for decades, works within minutes, and wears off almost as quickly once the mask comes off. Serious side effects are rare, reported in fewer than around 1 percent of cases, which is part of why it is so commonly offered to anxious children.
Key takeaways
- Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative gas breathed in through a nose mask.
- It works in minutes and wears off within minutes of stopping.
- Your child stays awake, able to hear and respond, throughout.
- Side effects are uncommon and usually mild, such as brief nausea or light-headedness.
- It is generally not used under about age two, or with certain breathing problems or a blocked nose.
The one thing parents most want to know: is it safe?
Yes, when given by a trained dental team. Nitrous oxide has a long safety record in children, a wide margin of safety, and a quick recovery because the body clears it through the lungs within minutes. Unlike deeper sedation or general anaesthesia, your child stays conscious the whole time, able to breathe on their own, hear the dentist, and respond. The mask delivers a controlled mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen, and the dentist adjusts the level to keep your child comfortable.
How it works and what to expect
Before
The dentist checks your child's medical history, including any breathing conditions or a blocked nose, since congestion stops the mask working. A light meal beforehand is usually fine, but follow the practice's specific instructions.
During
Your child breathes through the nose mask and within a few minutes feels relaxed, perhaps tingly, warm or giggly, hence the nickname. They remain awake and can answer questions. The dentist carries out the treatment, then switches the mask to pure oxygen for a few minutes at the end to clear the gas.
After
Because it wears off so fast, most children are back to normal almost immediately and can usually return to school or normal activity the same day. Some feel briefly light-headed or a little nauseous, which passes quickly.
Which children does it suit?
Nitrous oxide suits children who are anxious but can understand simple instructions and breathe through the nose. It is excellent for fillings, extractions and longer procedures in a nervous child. It is generally not used in children under about two, who may not understand the mask, and it is avoided where there is significant nasal blockage, certain respiratory conditions, or some other specific medical issues. For children who cannot cope even with laughing gas, a dentist can discuss other options.
General cost guide
The ranges below are general Australian market figures for planning, not a quote, and Lumi Dental does not list its own prices here.
| Item | General market range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Nitrous oxide sedation (per visit) | $80 to $200 |
| Child check-up and clean | $120 to $280 |
| Eligible children (Child Dental Benefits Schedule) | Subsidised, subject to eligibility |
The team at Lumi Dental is happy to talk through whether laughing gas suits your child and provide a written quote. See current offers on the current deals page or book with a general dentist.
Frequently asked questions
Will my child be asleep?
No. Nitrous oxide is a light sedation. Your child stays awake and aware, just calm and comfortable, and can hear and respond to the dentist throughout.
Can my child eat before and after?
A light meal beforehand is usually fine, and normal eating can resume soon after, but follow the specific advice from your practice.
Are there side effects?
They are uncommon and mild, mainly brief nausea or light-headedness that settles quickly once the gas is cleared with oxygen.
What if laughing gas is not enough?
For very young or highly anxious children, or longer treatment, a dentist can discuss alternatives. Preparation, a gentle approach and desensitisation are used alongside or instead of sedation.
Next steps
For related reading, see our guides on children's dental anxiety, autism-friendly dental visits, your child's first filling, and whether dental X-rays are safe for kids.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice tailored to your child.
