Dental Local Anesthesia: Techniques and Key Features

Categories: Anesthesia and Sedation

Author(s): Mel Hawkins, DDS, BSCD AN, FADSA, DADBA, Kathy Bassett, BSDH, RDH, MEd, Royann Royer, CDA, RDH, MPH

Course Type: Self-instruction journal and web based activity

Target Audience: Dental Assistants, Dental Hygienist, Dentists from novice to advanced

Educational Objectives

After completing this course, the reader should be able to:
1. Review the anatomy of local anesthesia
2. Reassess the conventional inferior alveolar block
3. Analyze the efficacy and “how-tos” of lingual infiltration of permanent mandibular molars
4. Teach the Periodontal Ligament (PDL) Injection; the Akinosi and Gow-Gates Mandibular Blocks; the Maxillary V2 Division Block; and the Anterior Middle Superior Alveolar (AMSA) Block
5. Share some “tips and tricks” learned by trial and error
6. Review summary charts for injection techniques, anesthetics, vasoconstrictors, contraindications, and possible complications.

Abstract

This “Key Features Manual” will discuss reasons for the lack of effective anesthesia with an emphasis on the mandibular technique. The neuroanatomy and histology of the pterygomandibular triangle will be reviewed to help enhance an understanding of the complexities of the conventional inferior alveolar block and its associated lingual and buccal nerve blocks. After a thorough summary of the conventional inferior alveolar block, the Akinosi and Gow-Gates mandibular blocks will be visited, allowing for a “mixed” or hybrid approach. Multitasking supplementation with mandibular infiltrative and advanced techniques combined with other “tips and tricks” can result in a predictably higher success rate. While the primary focus of this manual is mandibular techniques, select maxillary techniques, are also featured.

COMMERCIAL SUPPORT: This educational activity is made possible through an unrestricted educational grant from Septodont