Pediatric dental management of a patient with hearing loss using nitrous oxide conscious sedation: case report

Abstract

Dental care for PNE with deafness is challenging due to the complexities involved in communication and adaptation to the clinical environment. Therefore, the use of conscious sedation with nitrous oxide in pediatric dental patients with deafness is a viable strategy to facilitate dental treatment, reduce anxiety and promote cooperation during procedures. In the case reported, patient M.V.D, 13 years old, female, hearing impaired, attended the Postgraduate Clinic in Pediatric Dentistry with an emphasis on PNE (patients with specific needs), at Faculdade do Amazonas – IAES, accompanied by her mother for a consultation routine dentistry. The patient underwent a treatment plan that included prophylaxis, scaling and root planing on the lower anterior teeth on the lingual surface (32,31,41,42), composite resin restorations on elements 24(O), 36(O), 46(O). The use of this approach with conscious sedation with nitrous oxide was challenging and demonstrated in part to be effective in providing a calm and efficient treatment, despite the limitation resulting from the patient's hearing impairment. The objective of this work was to report a clinical case of conscious sedation with nitrous oxide in a deaf pediatric patient and highlight the communication strategies used, the challenges faced, and results obtained, aiming to contribute to inclusive and effective dental practice.