Comparative Analysis Of Use Of Topical Anesthetics And Local Anesthetic Infiltrations Among Pediatric Dental Patients - A Retrospective Study

Aim of this study was to assess the use of topical anesthetics and local anesthetic infiltrations in pediatric dentistry. Local anesthesia is one of the most commonly used agents in dentistry. Pain control in dental treatment for children is very important. Pain and anxiety related to dentistry has been historically the main reason for poor attendance to the dentists particularly children. Topical anesthetics alter pain thresholds by controlling pain sensations through a blockade of signals that are transmitted from the peripheral sensory nerve fibers. Usage of topical anesthesia can widely reduce pain and pain associated with needle prick The purpose of this study is to evaluate the usage of both topical and infiltration local anesthesia in pediatric patients visiting saveetha dental college and hospitals. Total of (n=109) subjects who visited an institution were evaluated. All the details required for the study such as age, type of local anesthesia used were retrieved retrospectively and evaluated using SPSS software. Topical anesthesia is less used (n=41) and no association between age and type of anesthesia being used, All age groups of children receive topical anesthesia but it is found to be less number when compared to infiltration. Within the limitations of this institution based study it was concluded that there is lesser usage of topical anesthesia in pediatric dentistry. Topical anesthesia was used frequently only while treating upper posterior teeth. Using topical anesthesia prior to infiltration can reduce anxiety and reduce the needle prick pain as well.