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Articaine and paresthesia: epidemiological studies
1Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto. daniel.haas@utoronto.ca
The Journal of the American College of Dentists
|May 5, 2007
Summary
Permanent paresthesia, a nerve issue, can occur after local anesthetic injections. Studies link higher concentrations of prilocaine and articaine to this risk, particularly in dental procedures.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Local anesthetic injections can lead to permanent paresthesia.
- Epidemiological studies indicate a potential link between 4% anesthetic solutions and paresthesia.
- Prilocaine and articaine are specific agents frequently implicated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize the epidemiological evidence concerning articaine and its association with paresthesia.
- To evaluate the risk of permanent nerve damage following dental anesthesia with articaine.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies and case reports.
- Analysis of data linking articaine use to paresthesia.
- Assessment of the incidence and characteristics of paresthesia associated with articaine.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a correlation between articaine use and the occurrence of paresthesia.
- The incidence and severity of paresthesia may vary based on factors such as concentration and injection technique.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the risk factors and mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Articaine, particularly at 4% concentration, is associated with an increased risk of developing permanent paresthesia.
- Dentists should be aware of this potential adverse event when using articaine.
- Informed consent and careful injection techniques are crucial to minimize risk.
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