PERCEPTIONS OF MODERATE SEDATION SUCCESS IN THE PEDIATRIC POPULATION

Purpose: To compare perceptions of dental providers including pediatric dentists, general dentists, and pediatric dental residents in how they view the success of moderate sedation (MS) in the pediatric population. Methods: A 22-item survey was distributed to members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), including pediatric dentists, general dentists, and residents. The survey included provider preferences and attitudes towards MS, ranking patient considerations and other factors associated with MS success. Results: Of 470 respondents, 73% (n=342) reported current MS use, with rates highest among residents (89%), followed by residency-trained pediatric dentists (71%) and general dentists (64%) (P=.0006). Provider outlook towards use of MS was not significantly associated with provider type (P=.3364). MS users had more positive attitudes toward sedation than non-users (P< .0001). The rates for treatment completed and patient behavior were significantly higher than patient satisfaction or duration of treatment when measuring success of MS (P< .0001). Conclusion: MS success was primarily associated with treatment completion and patient behavior, rather than patient satisfaction or appointment duration. Providers prioritized behavioral and treatment outcomes as indicators of success.