Before choosing a sedation or anesthesia option, it’s important to know who will be administering the medication and monitoring your child. Here’s a brief overview of medical and dental professionals who might be involved in your child’s dental procedure:
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General Dentist: They have completed college, dental school, and the necessary exams through a State Dental Board. General dentists also have a state-issued dental license.
Pediatric Dentist: After completing general dental training and licensure, pediatric dentists undergo a 2-3 year pediatric dental residency, which includes pediatric sedation training. They may also be board certified after passing a national exam.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: These professionals complete a 4-6 year residency after dental school. Most have a dental license, and some also have a medical license. Some are certified to administer general anesthesia. They may also be board certified after a national exam.
Anesthesiologist: These are physicians or dentists who have completed a 3-5 year anesthesiology residency and passed all required exams. They are qualified to administer anesthesia for dental procedures and oral surgery and may have special training and certification for treating children.
Nurse Anesthetist: Registered nurses with a 2-year specialized program after nursing school and additional clinical experience. In some states, they can administer anesthesia in dental offices without a dentist or physician’s supervision.
Dental Hygienist: Typically holding a 2-year dental hygiene degree, these professionals are licensed to provide local anesthesia in the mouth.
Dental Assistant: Training varies, with some receiving on-the-job training and others completing certificate programs. They assist in dental procedures but are not qualified as independent observers for deep sedation or general anesthesia.
Dental Sedation Assistant: State requirements vary, but they can monitor patients under anesthesia after obtaining a certificate through online or on-site educational programs. However, they cannot independently administer sedation or rescue medications.Â
The new guidelines from AAP and AAPD recommend that a professional trained in anesthesia be present during the procedure to focus on delivering and monitoring deep sedation and general anesthesia, while the dentist or oral surgeon concentrates on the dental surgery. This ensures the highest level of safety for your child during dental procedures.