A survey of general anaesthesia and sedation in dental practice in two cities

Using a postal questionnaire, the use of general anaesthesia and sedation in general dental practice in two cities over a 4-week period was investigated. Questionnaires were sent to a random sample of one in five dental practitioners in Bristol and Sheffield, and an 82% response rate was attained. More practices in Sheffield administered general anaesthesia than those in Bristol. The differences between the facilities provided are discussed. Equipment and facilities have improved since a larger survey was described in 1976, but the use and availability of monitoring equipment has changed little since then. The results reflect the decline in the use of general anaesthesia in dental practice seen nationally. The survey provides an insight into the current anaesthetic services provided in general dental practice in two cities, both of which contain dental hospitals, and provides a basis for the design of a protocol for a further national survey.