A buccal block is a common technique used in dentistry to manage pain during various procedures. This localized anesthetic method helps ensure patient comfort by numbing specific areas of the mouth. Dentists frequently employ this approach to allow them to perform necessary dental work effectively.
Understanding the Buccal Block
A buccal block is a type of local anesthetic injection specifically targeting a nerve to achieve numbness in a particular oral region. This method involves introducing a medication that temporarily blocks nerve signals, preventing pain sensations from reaching the brain. This form of nerve block is distinct from general anesthesia, as the patient remains fully conscious throughout the procedure. Dentists often choose a buccal block for specific restorative procedures on lower teeth, such as fillings or crowns on molars and premolars. It is also routinely used during extractions of these posterior lower teeth to ensure adequate pain control.
How a Buccal Block is Administered
Administering a buccal block typically begins with the application of a topical anesthetic gel to the injection site. This gel, often containing lidocaine or benzocaine, numbs the surface tissue, minimizing discomfort from the needle insertion. The dentist then slowly introduces the anesthetic solution using a fine needle. Patients may feel a brief, mild pinch as the needle penetrates the tissue, followed by a sensation of pressure or fullness as the anesthetic liquid is deposited. Numbness usually begins to set in within a few minutes.
Areas Numbed by the Buccal Block
The buccal block specifically targets the long buccal nerve, also known as the buccinator nerve, which is a branch of the mandibular nerve. This nerve provides sensory innervation to the soft tissues of the cheek adjacent to the lower molars. Consequently, the injection leads to numbness in the buccal gingiva, which are the gums on the cheek side of the lower posterior teeth. The numbness extends from the area of the first molar backward to the wisdom teeth in the lower jaw on the side of the injection. While the primary effect is on the soft tissues of the cheek and gums, some patients may also experience a slight sensation of numbness in the outer aspect of the lower molars and premolars.
What to Expect After a Buccal Block
After the dental procedure, numbness from a buccal block typically lasts between two to four hours. As the anesthetic begins to wear off, patients commonly experience a tingling sensation in the cheek and gums, indicating the gradual return of normal feeling. This sensation is similar to a limb “waking up” after being asleep.
It is advisable to exercise caution while the mouth remains numb to prevent accidental injury. Patients should avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent inadvertently biting their cheek, tongue, or lip. Consuming hot liquids should also be postponed until full sensation returns, as the inability to feel temperature could lead to burns. Minor, temporary side effects, such as slight soreness or a small bruise at the injection site, can occasionally occur but typically resolve quickly.