Topical and Local Anesthetics in Dentistry

Course Code: REL-ACU-0-TLAD

Hours: 0.75

Type: Online Course

Content Expiration Date: 12/31/2028

Learning Objectives:
Identify the types and properties of commonly used topical and local anesthetics in dentistry.
Recall proper administration techniques and safety protocols for anesthetics.
Recognize potential complications and adverse reactions associated with anesthetic use.

Outline:

Section 1: Local Anesthesia

Local Anesthesia

Overview

Local Anesthetic Characteristics

Types of Local Anesthetic

Knowledge Check

Recommended Dose of Common Local Anesthetics

Calculations

Maximum Recommended Dose

Knowledge Check

Commonly Used Techniques to Achieve Local Anesthesia in Dentistry

Overview

Buccal Infiltration

Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block

Gow-Gates Technique

Vazirani-Akinosi Technique

Mental and Incisive Blocks

Buccal Nerve Block

Supplemental Injection

Knowledge Check

Considerations and Contraindications for Local Anesthetic Use in Dentistry

True Allergy

Renal and Hepatic Disease

Cardiovascular Disease

Pediatric Considerations

Knowledge Check

Complications From the Use of Local Anesthesia During Dental Procedures

Overview

Knowledge Check

Key Takeaways

Section 2: Practice Innovations and Documentation

Local Anesthesia Advances to Increase Accuracy and Patient Comfort

Overview

Computer-Controlled Local Anesthetic Delivery (CCLAD)

Buffered Anesthetics

Ultrasound-Guided Delivery

Vibrotactile Devices

After Local Anesthetic Use in Dentistry

Documentation

Knowledge Check

Case Study 1: Pediatric Patient Requiring Pulpotomy on Primary Molar

Patient Profile

Reflection

Case Study 2: Anxious Adult Male Presents for Maxillary Extraction

Patient Profile

Reflection

Section 3: Conclusion

Course Summary

Course Contributors

References

Subject Matter Expert: Eileen Barfuss, DDS

Eileen Barfuss is an accomplished general dentist and healthcare leader with over a decade of clinical and administrative experience across private practice, corporate dentistry, and academic settings. Currently serving as Assistant Professor and Clinic Director at Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry, Dr. Barfuss bridges clinical operations and dental education, expanding patient access while shaping future practitioners. She previously held lead dentist roles at multiple dental service organizations, where she successfully launched new practices, enhanced patient outcomes, and implemented data-driven operational improvements. Dr. Barfuss earned her DDS and completed an AEGD residency at Howard University. She holds active licensure in Pennsylvania.

Editor: Chris Martin, BS, BA

Chris is a writer and editor at Relias. He holds a national safety and health credential from OSHA's Directorate of Training and Education.

Target Audience:
The target audience for this course is: Dental Hygienist; Dentist; in the following settings: Ambulatory Care.

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To earn continuing education credit for this course you must achieve a passing score of 80% on the post-test and complete the course evaluation.

Course Delivery Method and Format
Asynchronous Distance Learning with interactivity which includes quizzes with questions/answers, and posttests.