Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block Variations: A review
Abstract
The inferior alveolar nerve block is the most common method for obtaining mandibular anaesthesia in dental practice though it has been estimated to have only 80 to 85% of success rate. Traditional anaesthesia of the mandibular nerve and its branches consists of deposition of anaesthetic solution in the region of the mandibular foramen. This commonly used technique eliminates all somatosensory perception of the mandible, mandibular teeth, floor of the mouth, ipsilateral tongue, and all but the lateral (buccal) gingivae. In the case of difficulty-to-anesthetize patient, the inferior alveolar nerve can be particularly challenging. In those patients, other approaches may be necessary to achieve profound anaesthesia. This article summarizes the different approaches that may be utilized in such cases.References
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