Dental Anesthetics

Within the realm of dental supplies, dental anesthetics are perhaps some of the most important, the initial step in all dental procedures. There are several varieties of dental anesthetic, the first of which are topical anesthetics.

Topical anesthetics are applied before the injection of a local anesthetic or other minor procedures and include benzocaine and eugenol. Benzocaine is an ester of PABA; esters of PABA work by blocking sodium, responsible for propagating the nervous system signals known as pain. Eugenol is also commonly used by dentists and is derived from clove oil, leading it to use in perfumes and flavorings as well.

Along with topical anesthetics, local anesthetics are used to completely numb an area of the mouth. In most cases, the drugs are injected into the alveolar nerves, cutting off sensation to multiple teeth, lip, and chin. While most associate a large syringe filled with novocaine or procaine with the dental office, lidocaine is used today. Along with benzocaine, lidocaine seeks to block sodium channels. Because the drug is so powerful, it must be titrated carefully. In some cases, however, novocaine is still used. Novocaine is the trade name of procaine, works as an ester anesthetic and has the added benefit of constricting blood vessels to stem bleeding.

In addition to topical anesthetics, “laughing gas” is commonly used to reduce anxiety, induce euphoria, and mitigate pain. “Laughing gas” is actually nitrous oxide and is blended 50:50 with oxygen and administered via nose respirator. It is commonly scented for children but on its own has a sweet smell.

For dental surgery, general anesthetic is used. Unlike local anesthetic that can be applied by a dentist, general anesthetic is administered under the supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist. A round of general anesthetic usually starts with an inhaled drug, sevoflurane in most cases. After the patient is out, another gas is used such as isoflurane to maintain the anesthesia. To prevent memories of the procedure, Versed is used. Versed is the trade name of Midazolam, a derivative of benzodiazepine that interacts with GABA receptors to produce amnesia and sedation. Something like whitening for teeth would most like not require an anesthetic.

Whatever the dental procedure, dental anesthetics are very important to the dentist and provide overall comfort for the patient.

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