Failure of inferior alveolar nerve block: exploring the alternatives.
BACKGROUND
Achieving proper anesthesia is imperative to performing most dental procedures. The conventional inferior alveolar nerve block is the most commonly used nerve block technique. In certain cases, however, this nerve block fails, even when performed by the most experienced clinician.
The authors explore the reasons why the conventional inferior alveolar nerve block fails and describe several alternate techniques. They also present the protocol used in their office to achieve mandibular anesthesia.


CONCLUSIONS
Several alternatives to the inferior alveolar nerve block are available. Clinicians should investigate them, rather than repeat the inferior alveolar nerve block after it has failed. Practice Implications. Mastering anesthetic techniques maximizes success in the dental office. It enables clinicians to provide better and more comfortable treatment to patients.
Madan
Gautam A
GA
gautammadan@yahoo.com
Madan
Sonal G
SG
Madan
Arjun D
AD
D000539:Alveolar Process; D000766:Anesthesia, Dental / Q000379:methods*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003782:Dental Pulp; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D008340:Mandibular Nerve; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods*; D010513:Periodontal Ligament; D017211:Treatment Failure