Pharmacological management of the pediatric dental patient

Abstract

Pharmacological management of the pediatric dental patient is considered a subcategory of a broader collection of professional mediated activities known as behavior management techniques. Pharmacological techniques are generally divided into either: (1) various levels of sedation; or (2) general anesthesia. Pharmacological techniques are not universally offered by practicing dentists for a host of reasons including, but not limited to: (1) variation in practitioner training and philosophy; (2) state rules and regulations; (3) cost and reimbursement; and (4) safety issues.