Congratulations on completing your dental procedure! To ensure a smooth recovery after nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas), follow these instructions carefully.
When to Seek Medical Attention
- If you or your child experiences difficulty breathing or dizziness, immediately go to the nearest medical facility and inform our office.
Instructions for Pediatric Patients
1. Monitor Closely:
- Keep a close eye on your child for at least 6 hours after the procedure.
2. Avoid Risky Activities:
- Children may feel drowsy for the rest of the day. Avoid activities requiring balance or coordination, such as:
- Playing on stairs
- Riding a bicycle
- Swimming
- Bathing
3. Encourage Fluid Intake:
- Start offering fluids as soon as possible after the procedure and continue throughout the day to keep your child hydrated.
4. Follow Extraction Care (If Applicable):
- If your child had a tooth extraction, refer to the post-extraction care instructions provided.
5. Monitor Temperature:
- A mildly elevated temperature after treatment is normal and usually a response to physical stress, not an infection. Keep your child hydrated to help regulate their temperature.
Instructions for Adult Patients
1. Expect Fatigue:
- Although nitrous oxide clears from the body quickly, you may feel tired after the procedure.
2. Avoid Driving:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home to ensure safety.
Additional Tips
- Rest and stay hydrated after the procedure to aid recovery.
- Contact us if you have concerns about post-treatment symptoms, medications, or your recovery.
This instruction applies to General Dentistry and sedation services, specifically for procedures involving nitrous oxide sedation.