What is the primary concern when a patient is under sedation for a dental procedure?

The primary concern when a patient is under sedation for a dental procedure is maintaining airway and breathing. Sedation has varying levels of impact on a patient's cognitive and physiological functions, which can lead to potential respiratory depression or compromised airway management. Dental professionals must closely monitor the patient's respiratory status since sedation can lead to relaxation of the muscles in the throat, increasing the risk of airway obstruction.

Ensuring that the airway is clear and the patient is breathing adequately is essential for preventing complications during and after the procedure. This monitoring typically involves observing the patient's color, respiratory effort, and the use of equipment to assist or maintain airway patency if needed. Other aspects such as patient comfort, procedure efficiency, and minimizing recovery times are important but secondary to the critical need to ensure that the patient can breathe and maintain proper oxygenation throughout the dental procedure.