Evaluation of three topical anaesthetic agents against pain: a clinical study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Pain Management
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Topical anesthetics are crucial for managing pain during dental procedures in children.
• Evaluating the efficacy and onset of action of different topical agents is essential for optimizing pediatric dental care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the pain responses of children aged 6-12 years during buccal infiltration anesthesia.
• To assess the rapidity of onset of action for EMLA 5% cream, benzocaine 18% gel, and lignocaine 5% ointment.
• To evaluate taste acceptance of the tested topical anesthetic agents.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind study involving 60 healthy children (6-12 years old).
• Bilateral buccal infiltration anesthesia was administered after topical application of EMLA 5% cream, benzocaine 18% gel, or lignocaine 5% ointment.
• Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for self-reporting and the Sound-Eye-Motor (SEM) scale for operator assessment.

Main Results:

• Benzocaine 18% gel demonstrated the most rapid onset of action.
• EMLA 5% cream showed superior pain reduction compared to benzocaine and lignocaine.
• Benzocaine gel was preferred for taste acceptance.

Conclusions:

• EMLA 5% cream is more effective for pain reduction than benzocaine and lignocaine during buccal infiltration in children.
• Benzocaine gel offers a faster onset of action and better taste profile.
• Further research into improved formulations of EMLA cream for mucosal application in dentistry is recommended.