Many children can be treated in the dental office with basic behavior management techniques. However other many will need advanced behavior management techniques and not all pediatric dentists perform these, because of lack of training and or equipment.
There is a need for all pediatric dentists to stop using the term “conscious sedation” and instead defining exactly the level of sedation pursued which will be minimal, moderate or deep level of sedation or general anesthesia. The sedation of these children needs to be done following protocols that establish a safety path for both the child and the practitioner.
Working with drugs with a wide safety margin, only maximum dosages recommended and monitoring are of the essence. Among all, sedation with nitrous oxide and oxygen proves to be safe and the best for a safe and positive sedation in the dental office.
We will review current guidelines, techniques of administration, discharge of patients and tips for success that can help both the patient and the practitioner for successful outcomes.
