Review article Conscious sedation in pediatric dentistry. A short review of the current UK guidelines and the technique of inhalational sedation with nitrous oxide

摘要

Conscious sedation is used in pediatric dentistry as elsewhere to reduce fear and anxiety in pediatric patients and so promote favorable treatment outcomes. This can help to develop a long-term positive psychological response to necessary dental procedures.The publication of 'A Conscious Decision' in 2000 (1) resulted in the cessation of general anesthesia for dentistry in the primary care setting. Up to this date, there had been an increased emphasis on the safe provision of conscious sedation for management of pain and anxiety in child and adult patients and this has continued following the removal of general anesthesia in the primary care.