Your Pediatric & Special Needs Dentist in Hockessin
451 Hockessin Corners, Hockessin, DE 19707
Call Us(302) 234-2440

Nitrous Gas

Nitrous Gas

Most children feel comfortable when visiting the dentist. Early exposure to the dentist helps younger patients to associate the dental office with feeling of relaxation. Some children however, may feel nervous before their visit or while sitting in the dental chair. Sometimes they need more than gentle care to feel relaxed. Nitrous gas is a safe sedative used to help your child relax during the dental visit while allowing the doctor to effectively treat your child.

Nitrous gas is a blend of oxygen and nitrous oxide. Before the procedure a fitted mask is placed over your child’s nose and as they breathe, the blend is absorbed through the lungs. At the end of the treatment, the nitrous gas is removed and has no lingering effects. One of the side effects during treatment is a sense of contentment and relaxation one of the reasons why nitrous gas is also known as “laughing gas.”

The use of nitrous gas is very safe as it is rapidly absorbed, is reversible, and can be adjusted in concentration. Your child is fully conscious and keeps all of their natural reflexes while absorbing the nitrous gas. If you are interested in learning more about the use of nitrous gas during your child’s visits, or in other alternatives, please contact our offices to answer any of your questions or schedule an appointment to find out if nitrous gas is a suitable option for your child.

Mary Katherine Matthews, DDS - Pediatric Dentistry - Nitrous Gas

OUR MISSION

Our Philosophy

Our team consists of dedicated individuals who are kind, friendly, and caring. Our staff is here to ensure a pleasant experience during your visit to our office. Our team includes experienced and energetic people whose goal is to communicate well with our patients and provide the best care possible.

  • We put our patients’ needs first
  • We create a comfortable environment
  • We provide quality and comprehensive care

Mary Katherine Matthews, DMD

Experienced Hockessin Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Katie Matthews is a board-certified dentist in Hockessin specializing in pediatric and special needs dentistry. She is committed to helping parents and their children establish a dental home by age one. Early education and routine preventive care promote healthy habits. Dr. Katie is happy to accommodate the unique needs of each and every child. 

 Featured on Delaware Today

Mary Katherine Matthews DMD

Pediatric & Special Needs Dentistry

what parents say

Dr. Mary Katherine Matthews Testimonials

Dr. Kate was wonderful with my son. She did the checking and the cleaning of his teeth. He had his first x-ray at the age of 14 and he did well with the “Astronaut” machine. He and I were able to see the full picture of his teeth including the start of his wisdom teeth. Dr. Kate answered all my questions. We are very pleased.

Marie G.

Actual Patient

The dental visit with our 6 year old was amazing! Our child has typically been very anxious about dental care. He left his appointment today saying that he “likes going to the dentist.” Everyone was very patient, kind and caring! Thank you again for this wonderful experience!

Nicole B.

Actual Patient

It is obvious that Dr. Katie cares about children. She took her time with my three-year-old son and explained everything that she was doing. I felt very comfortable, and so did he. Thank you!

Jennifer B.

Actual Patient