Recently, the RCDSO published new guidelines for “sedation and general anesthesia” in dental practice. Having been in practice for 40 years and using sedation in practice on a very frequent basis, I knew that I should be taking the course in medical emergencies and sedation to be up to today’s standards.
The RCDSO has put this guideline in place – not as a guideline, but as “a standard of practice”. This is for the protection of our patients, and ultimately to protect dentists from the unsavory thought of a lawsuit arising from a sedation incident.
I reluctantly signed up for the combined medical emergencies/conscious sedation course being put on through the U. of Toronto dental continuing education faculty. It consisted of three days, two exams, and hands-on training.
Here are my observations and those of virtually everyone else in the course:
1. Dr. Dan Haas is a superb teacher and lecturer who can deliver the correct information in a concise, evidence-based package, generously mixed with real life situations (well maybe not one with James Bond doing his own defibrillation). He made the three days more than worthwhile, he made them stimulating.
2. The staff of the dental school kept the course on time, well organized, and very efficient. The price for a three-day course was extremely reasonable.
3. The exams were comprehensive but Dr. Haas made sure everyone was well prepared, even those of us who are used to reading but not being examined.
Sedation is a very useful adjunct to dental practice and, correctly used, can be safe and help our patients through an anxious dental treatment. It should be part of every dentist’s training.
Thanks to Dr. Haas and the U. of T. continuing education department.
Dr. Peter Brymer
Toronto
