Perfil da utiliza o da seda o com óxido nitroso por cirurgi es-dentistas na cidade de Porto Alegre/RS

The aim of this study was to know the profi le of the usage of nitrous oxide by dentists of the city of Porto Alegre/RS. Based on the data of the CRO/RS, we identifi ed 21 qualified professionals in Porto Alegre/RS. A structuralized questionnaire with open and closed questions was sent to the surgeon dentists with 76% of return (16). The results evidenced that 70% (11) of the interviewed professionals use the technique routinely, being that 40% are specialized in Odontopediatrics. Regarding the professional experience, it was noticed that six (6) graduated in the 70's and 80's and four (4) graduated in the 90's. The positive points mentioned were the effectiveness in reducing the anxiety and fear and the low risk. The negative points mentioned were the high cost of the technique and the need of patient's cooperation. Although this technique is used by few dentists, the conscious sedation with nitrous oxide has a great potential for its usage, specially in Odontopediatrics.