Question

Discuss the characteristics of local anesthetics and IV sedation. Include in your discussion, the role of the Dental Assistant in pain management as well as the complications and precautions of local anesthetics and IV sedation.

Answer 1

Characteristic of local anesthetic

Molecule consist of three components, aromatic ring, amide chain and terminal amine

Applied locally ,doesn't cause unconsciousness

Block sensation in specific area .

Shorter duration of action

Characteristic of IV sedation -

Given intravenously, used as general anesthetic

Cause sedation or loss of consciousness depend on amount ,can be conscious or unconscious

Action within minutes

Duration of action is long

General anesthetic are used in dental assessment of pain, they are given for extraction of tooth .

Complications of

Local anesthesia - toxicity if overdose , haematoma, pain at site of infection, blood vessel rupture or injury, edema, trismus

IV sedation - respiratory depression, nausea, vomiting , drowsiness, haemodynamic changes

Precautions of local anesthesia

LA numbs the area, so you will not feel sensation in that area so like in mouth , don't bite cheeks

If on aspirin, then tell your doctor otherwise it would lead in excessive bleeding

IV sedation - don't drink or eat anything 6 hours before procedure

Don't smoke 10-14 hours before procedure

Take medication if indicated with instructions