NJAPD Dinner Meeting
Pediatric Airway: Recognition and Rescue in the Dental Setting
Date
October 6, 2026 | 6 PM - 9 PM
Location
NJDA Headquarters
1 Dental Plaza
North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902
At the completion of the course, participants should be able to:
- Describe the developmental and anatomical differences between the younger child and older child and explain how these differences affect sedation risk.
- Explain the effects of commonly used sedative and analgesic medications on pediatric respiratory drive, airway tone, and protective reflexes.
- Demonstrate an appropriate stepwise approach to managing pediatric airway obstruction, including positioning, airway-opening maneuvers, suction, adjuncts, and positive-pressure ventilation.
- Discuss strategies to prevent airway complications through appropriate patient selection, fasting assessment, positioning, medication selection, dosing, and continuous monitoring.
Speaker Bio
Dr. Jay Patel
Dr. Jay Patel is a New Jersey native with a deep commitment to making dentistry more comfortable and accessible for every patient. He began his academic journey at Rutgers University on an academic scholarship, later earning his dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine—where he discovered his passion for anesthesiology.
He completed his anesthesia residency at NYU Langone Hospital – Brooklyn, a Level 1 trauma center, where he gained extensive experience across all levels of anesthesia care. Following his training, Dr. Patel became board-certified by the American Dental Board of Anesthesiology, a distinction reflecting his dedication to clinical excellence and patient safety.
For over a decade, Dr. Patel has served dental practices across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, bringing hospital-grade anesthesia services directly to the dental office. He specializes in treating pediatric patients, individuals with special needs, and those with severe dental anxiety—ensuring every patient receives care in a way that feels calm, safe, and respectful.