Pediatrician’s knowledge, perception and awareness regarding sedation in pediatric dentistry: a questionnaire-based survey
Background: Sedation is an important behavior management technique in pediatric dentistry that helps provide safe and effective dental treatment in anxious and uncooperative children. Pediatricians often influence parental decisions regarding dental sedation. This study aimed to assess pediatrician’s knowledge, perception and awareness regarding sedation in pediatric dentistry. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 123 pediatricians using a structured Google Forms questionnaire consisting of 16 multiple-choice questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test. Results: Most participants (85.4%) were aware of pediatric dental sedation, with nitrous oxide sedation being the most recognized modality (74.0%). Majority of pediatricians considered sedation safe when appropriately administered (74.0%). Parental fear, insufficient professional training and limited access to sedation facilities were identified as major barriers. Most participants (82.9%) expressed the need for additional training and awareness programs. Significant associations were observed between years of experience and awareness-related variables (p<0.05). Conclusions: Pediatricians demonstrated satisfactory awareness and positive perception regarding pediatric dental sedation; however, further training and interdisciplinary collaboration are required to improve safe sedation practices.