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Office-based anesthesia in dentistry. Past, present, and future trends
1Division of Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, UCLA School of Dentistry, USA.
Dental Clinics of North America
|May 20, 1999
Summary
Office-based anesthesia, including intravenous anesthetic techniques, is increasingly used in dentistry for patient comfort and cost-effectiveness. This trend is expected to grow, influenced by various professional and legislative factors.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Dental Medicine
Background:
- Office-based anesthesia has roots in the 1840s with early anesthetic discoveries.
- Modern advancements in intravenous techniques and cost pressures drive its current rise.
Observation:
- Specific dental patient groups benefit from office-based anesthesia.
- These include fearful, medically/behaviorally challenged, young, and gag-reflex-prone patients.
Findings:
- Office-based anesthesia in dentistry is a growing field.
- Its future is shaped by professional organizations, anesthesia providers, and legislative bodies.
Implications:
- The practice offers safe and cost-effective anesthesia care options.
- Future development hinges on balancing patient safety, cost, and accessibility.
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