Differences in perception of general anesthesia for pediatric dental treatment between pediatric dentists and dental anesthesiologists in Japan

Introduction: In Japan, the use of general anesthesia for dental treatment (GAD) is common in patients with intellectual disabilities. However, GAD in uncooperative pediatric patients without intellectual disabilities is uncommon. Aim: This study aimed to test the hypothesis that the variance in acceptance of GAD between pediatric dentists and dental anesthesiologists contributed to its limited use in uncooperative children. Materials and methods: A questionnaire-based survey was administered to dentists certified by the Japanese Society of Pediatric Dentistry (JSPD) and the Japanese Society of Dental Anesthesiologists (JDSA). The questionnaire included questions regarding the implementation and understanding of general anesthesia and sedation in children. The responses from both groups were compared. Results: The results showed that 63% of the JDSA group believed that restraints in dental treatment negatively affect intellectual development, compared to only 37% of the JSPD group. Additionally, 84% of the JDSA group preferred GA as it avoids interruption of treatment for uncooperative pediatric patients, compared to only 42% of the JSPD group. Conclusion: Dental anesthesiologists and pediatric dentists have different perceptions of GAD, and more communication is needed to establish optimal indications for GAD in pediatric patients.