Managing Pain With Topical Anesthetics

By Tulsi J. Patel, RDH, MHA

Dental topical anesthetics are among the most common drugs used in patient care, but their risks and adverse reactions are not always well known; in addition, many practitioners are not well versed in United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations regarding their use.¹ Many topical anesthetics are formulated in higher concentrations than their injectable counterparts, which increases their toxic potential—especially if the agents are misused.¹ To ensure patient safety, clinicians who apply topical anesthetics should be familiar with safe application techniques, contraindications, and possible adverse reactions.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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