Happy Air

Happy Air, or nitrous oxide, is an odorless gas that we use to help our patients feel calm and relaxed during pediatric dental appointments. It is the most common form of sedation used in dentistry. Children breathe Happy Air in through a mask placed over their nose, and then can relax during their appointment.

At Westgrove Dental, our pediatric dentists use Happy Air for our patients for several reasons:

• To reduce anxiety or discomfort during an appointment or procedure
• To increase tolerance for longer appointments
• To reduce gag reflex
• To ensure children can sit still

Happy Air helps all parties involved – parent, child and dental professionals because it ensures your child is comfortable, calm, and able to have needed dental work done. We know that dental appointments, especially those that may involve treatment beyond that of a standard checkup and cleaning, can be a cause for anxiety in some children. Happy air is a safe and effective way to ensure your child can receive needed treatment, while feeling relaxed.

What exactly is Happy Air?

We refer to nitrous oxide as Happy Air because it creates feelings of relaxation and even happiness when your child breathes it in. Happy Air is nitrous oxide, which is often referred to as laughing gas. Your child will breathe Happy Air in through a mask that we place over the nose. He or she will remain awake throughout the procedure, but will be completely relaxed. Many children report feeling as if sounds and noises are distant, but they are still aware of their surroundings. Effects of Happy Air wear off quickly, allowing your child to resume normal activities.

Are there any side effects we should be aware of?

As with any sedation used in dentistry, there are potential side effects, although these are very rare with the use of Happy Air. The most common are nausea and vomiting, however, this only occurs in less than 0.5% of patients.

How can my child benefit from the use of Happy Air?

Happy Air is safe, effective and quick, taking effect in a matter of minutes. It allows your child to feel relaxed and calm during his or her appointment, allowing our dental experts to perform the necessary work to ensure your child’s oral health. If your child is stressed, anxious, or nervous about dental work, Happy Air can be used to calm their nerves. It is also beneficial if your child needs extensive work and may get restless during the procedure.

At Westgrove Dental our priority is ensuring the comfort of every patient. Happy Air is a tool that allows us to ensure our youngest patients can receive the treatment they need as easily as possible.