Efficacy and safety of midazolam for sedation in pediatric dentistry: a controlled clinical trial.

PURPOSE: Pharmacological management of uncooperative children is becoming increasingly common in the dental setting. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of 3 different doses of midazolam for sedation in 2- to 4- year-old children with multiple dental needs and negative behavior.

METHODS

Ten children participated in this crossover, controlled, double-blinded clinical trial, which evaluated their behavior, appointment length and patient response after administration of 3 different doses of midazolam or placebo. Oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure were monitored in all sessions.

RESULTS

Sedated children exhibited a more positive behavior compared to the placebo group, both at the beginning of the appointment (sitting in the chair) and during administration of local anesthesia (P=.008 and P<.03, respectively). The use of midazolam allowed for longer appointments, and doses of at least 0.3 mg/kg produced a higher rate of positive behavior overall. No changes in oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure were observed.

CONCLUSION

Midazolam was effective and safe for pediatric sedation in the dosages studied.