Types of Sedation Dentistry

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In this survey, we found that dentists are four times more likely to offer nitrous oxide sedation than pediatric dental sedation.

The respondents to this survey tended to offer multiple types of sedation dentistry.

• 88% Nitrous Oxide
• 83% Oral Conscious Sedation
• 47% IV Sedation
• 31% Dental Fear / Phobic Counseling
• 22% Pediatric Sedation

Other types of dental sedation offered include general anesthesia, deep
sedation, IM injection, and hypnosis.

Here are some dentist comments:

Love for sedation dentistry

• “Couldn't do without these two [nitrous oxide & conscious sedation].” (Texas dentist)
• “It's a wonderful option for phobic patients!” (Minnesota dentist)

Do it, but carefully

• “In many cases it is the only safe way to practice dentistry for pediatric cases and special needs and phobics. Less is not necessarily more or better; it may very well be much more risky.” (Pennsylvania dentist)
• “It is wonderful that dentists are now addressing the issue of patient anxiety with sedation, but I hope that, as everything else, we don't attempt to treat patients with a one-size-fits-all mentality with give everyone the little blue pill philosophy.” (General Dentist)

Not everyone is cut out to be a sedation dentist

• “It’s not for everybody (the dentists).” (Kentucky dentist)

Training, training, training

• “Properly done, sedation is a great help for the patients who need it, but it must be done with care and adequate training.” (General dentist)
• “Sedation is very safe when used properly. Practice carefully and continue your training.” (Tennessee dentist)

Dental anesthesia

• “The dental profession should offer more programs for dentists who want to be able to administer general anesthesia.” (Massachusetts dentist)

IV sedation dentistry

• “I.V Sedation is probably safer due to more direct route of administration.” (California dentist)

Note: Survey sample included 59 respondents. Posted 10/5/2010