Inhalation Sedation

If your child feels anxious about visiting the dentist, inhalation sedation or “happy gas” can help make their experience much more relaxed, while they stay awake, responsive and in control throughout.
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About Inhalation Sedation

We understand that visiting the dentist can feel a little daunting for some children, which is why we offer inhalation sedation to help your child feel calm, comfortable and relaxed throughout their treatment.

Also known as “happy gas” or “laughing gas,” this gentle sedative is breathed in through a small, comfortable nosepiece, helping to ease anxiety while your child stays fully conscious, responsive and able to communicate throughout.

Our experienced team will talk you through what to expect and make sure your child feels safe and supported every step of the way.

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Child receiving dental treatment with inhalation sedation

The Inhalation Sedation Process

1
A Friendly Introduction
Dr Charlotte takes time to explain the nosepiece to your child in an age-appropriate, reassuring way before anything is placed.
2
Settling In
The soft nosepiece is gently placed over your child's nose. They breathe normally and begin to feel relaxed and comfortable within a few minutes.
3
Treatment Time
Dr Charlotte monitors your child throughout, who remains awake and responsive — able to hear and communicate at all times.
4
Recovery
Pure oxygen is given for a few minutes at the end to clear the gas. Most children feel completely normal within minutes and are ready to go home straight after.

Benefits

Reduces anxiety and fear
Happy gas helps nervous or worried children feel calmer and more at ease throughout their treatment.
Child stays awake and in control
Your child remains fully conscious and responsive the whole time, able to hear, communicate and feel in control.
No recovery time needed
The effects wear off within minutes of the gas being switched off, so your child can go straight back to school or normal activities the same day.
Gentle and well-tolerated
Delivered through a small, comfortable nosepiece, it's the mildest sedation option and one of the best-tolerated by children.
Got questions about Inhalation Sedation? Here are some common ones.

Inhalation Sedation FAQs

Will my child be unconscious when receiving inhalation sedation?

No — your child remains awake and able to talk throughout. They may feel warm, tingly, or pleasantly floaty, but they're aware of what's happening the whole time.

How quickly does inhalation sedation wear off?
Very quickly. Once the gas is turned off, your child breathes oxygen for a few minutes, and the effects clear from their system within around 30 minutes.
Is inhalation sedation suitable for my child?
It is suitable for most children, though it works best when they can breathe comfortably through their nose — so if your child has a cold or blocked nose on the day, it's worth letting us know as it may affect how well the sedation works.

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