Nitrous Oxide In Pediatric Dentistry: A Meta-Analysis

This study aims to evaluate the sedative and analgesic efficacy and safety of nitrous oxide in pediatric dental treatment through a meta-analysis. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective studies published from January 2000 to March 2025. Studies involving the use of nitrous oxide for sedation and analgesia in pediatric dental procedures were included. Data on treatment success rates, sedation effectiveness, pain scores, and adverse reactions were extracted. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The treatment success rate was significantly higher in the nitrous oxide group compared to the control group (RR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.25-1.61, P<0.001). The sedation effect was substantial, with a significant reduction in children’s anxiety levels (SMD=-0.85, 95% CI: -1.10 to -0.60, P<0.001). Pain scores were also significantly lower in the nitrous oxide group (SMD=-0.72, 95% CI: -0.95 to -0.49, P<0.001). No significant difference in adverse reactions was observed between the nitrous oxide and control groups (RR=1.08, 95% CI: 0.85-1.37, P=0.52), with most adverse effects being mild and transient. Nitrous oxide is effective in enhancing sedation and analgesia in pediatric dental treatment, improving treatment success rates and safety. Further large-scale, multicenter studies are needed to confirm its long-term safety and potential adverse effects.