Sedation in pediatric dentistry, an overview and current update

Abstract

Introduction: Conscious sedation is a technique of administering sedatives or dissociative agents with or without analgesics to induce a state that allows the patient to tolerate unpleasant procedures. Objective: To analyze the literature on the types of sedation and the different drugs that can be used such as midazolam, dexmedetomidine, propofol, and nitrous oxide. Methodology: A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, SCOPUS and Google Scholar using keywords such as sedation, pediatric dentistry, midazolam, dexmedetomidine, propofol, nitrous oxide. Results: The types of sedation are minimal, moderate, and general anesthesia, these are important in order to provide the best option according to the patient's age, condition and level of anxiety. Oral midazolam is usually used as a premedication causing good behavior, patient cooperation and decreased anxiety. Dexmedetomidine has anxiolytic, analgesic effects and little postoperative agitation. Propofol has a fast effect, short duration and fast elimination helping dentists to carry out dental treatments; as well as nitrous oxide, these two are preferred by parents. Conclusion: The best drug for sedation in pediatric dentistry is nitrous oxide because it is preferred by parents for being safe, effective, with minimal side effects and gives a good working time, it can be used in patients with special needs, with excessive anxiety or behavioral disorders making it a good alternative for sedation.