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Sedation

Comparison of In-Office Pediatric Dental Sedations in Rural vs. Urban Communities

47 - In-Office Pediatric Dental Sedations in Rural vs. Urban Communities

Friday, May 23, 2025
11:20 AM - 11:40 AM MDT
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Abstract:

Purpose: To compare the availability of in-office sedation resources, practice management, and barriers in different regions in the United States.





Methods: A SurveyMonkey questionnaire containing 23 questions was emailed to active practicing members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (n=7105) in the United States.





Results: The response rate was 6% (n=423), with respondents from suburban (60%, n=253), urban (26%, n=112), and rural (14%, n=58) areas. Solo practitioners accounted for the most common practice type in rural areas (40%), while pediatric-focused-group practices were most prevalent in urban areas (45%).  A consistent proportion across rural and urban communities of 76% (n=321) use in-office sedation, including 58% (n=246) using oral sedation, 32% (n=135) IV sedation, and 47% (n=199) general anesthesia. In-office sedation was used by 69% (n=40) of rural and 73% (n=82) of urban dentists. Anesthesiologists were utilized by 58% (n=247) of respondents, with longer travel distances by them to rural areas (78% >30 miles), compared to urban areas (50% < 10 miles). Dentists in rural areas cited cost/insurance and travel distance as barriers to care (both 75%), while dentists in urban areas mostly noted cost/insurance (77%) as the main factor. The most common waitlist for sedation for both groups was 1-3 months (57% rural, 57% urban). No significant relationship was observed between urban or rural locations, sedation usage, demographics, and practice type.





Conclusion: While in-office sedations were similarly utilized in both rural and urban communities, the primary difference observed in these practices was the distance traveled by anesthesiologists.

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