CONSCIOUS SEDATION WITH NITROUS OXIDE IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY: A STRATEGY FOR CONTROLLING CHILDHOOD ANXIETY

Abstract

This study reports on the use of conscious sedation with nitrous oxide in pediatric dentistry, highlighting its effectiveness in controlling children's anxiety during dental procedures. Fear and anxiety are daily challenges in pediatric dentistry, resulting in resistance to treatment and difficulty performing procedures, especially invasive and/or lengthy ones. In this context, a central question of this study arises: How does nitrous oxide contribute to controlling anxiety in children during dental care? The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of conscious sedation with nitrous oxide in controlling children's anxiety during dental treatments. The specific objectives include identifying the indications and contraindications for the use of nitrous oxide in pediatric dentistry, assessing the side effects of nitrous oxide use in children, and investigating the mechanisms of action of nitrous oxide in the human body. The adopted methodology is explanatory, using qualitative methods for a comprehensive understanding of the use of nitrous oxide in pediatric dentistry. The research will be conducted through a thorough literature review, based exclusively on scientific studies, without conducting field interviews. The expected results include a comprehensive view of the advantages of conscious sedation, the action of nitrous oxide in the human body, and the improvement of the quality of pediatric dental care. This work aims to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of pediatric dentistry, offering strategies for more effective and safe clinical practice in managing children's anxiety during dental procedures.