Abstract

Objective: To assess parental perspectives on conscious sedation and factors influencing their acceptance in pediatric dentistry.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Bahria University Dental College, Karachi, from Nov 2022 to December 2023. A total of 100 parents or guardians of children 4-14 years of age were included using a convenience sampling technique. Children requiring emergency dental procedures or with mental and physical impairments were excluded. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. SPSS version 22 was used for data analysis.
Results: Out of 100, 84% (n=84) parents consented to the use of sedation during procedure if needed, 75% (n=75) considered it safe, and 87% (n=87) preferred to remain present during the procedure. Conversely, 41% (n=41) were unsure about the need for supplemental anaesthesia, and 53% (n=53) were unclear about the fasting requirement before the procedure. Significant correlation was found between parents’ perception regarding the need for injection during sedation with age (p=0.025) and education level (p=0.042).
Conclusion: Most parents perceived conscious sedation as safe and acceptable. Age and education influenced certain perceptions. Greater emphasis on parental education is recommended for informed acceptance of conscious sedation in paediatric dentistry and the need for policies supporting sedation facilities in pediatric dentistry.

Key words: Conscious, sedation, perception, pediatric dentistry, behavior, dental care.