The University of Florida (UF) College of Dentistry in Gainesville is helping pediatric dentists get specialized training in dental sedation and office emergency preparedness.
During two courses in April, 70 dentists learned about evolving sedation practice guidelines that are critical to the safety and welfare of pediatric dental patients, and earned certification in advanced cardiac life support, the university noted in a press release. Part of the training was held at the UF College of Medicine simulation center, where participants were challenged with various sedation emergency situations using a child simulator.
The attendees represent more than half of the dentists who administer pediatric dental sedations in Florida, according to Gary Myers, DMD, president of the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Renewal of conscious sedation permits occurs biennially and requires that permit holders are current in basic and advanced cardiac life support, as certified by the American Heart Association. All Florida sedation permit holders must take a minimum of four hours continuing education that includes sedation and emergency management.
With 14 hours of interactive educational experiences, the UF training goes beyond the four hours of continuing education required for maintenance of Florida dental sedation permits. Faculty from around Florida, including two board-certified pediatric dentists, four board-certified pediatric anesthesiologists, and an emergency medical technician, provided instruction.
