Local anaesthesia of mandibular tissues

Question 1

When would an inferior alveolar nerve block be indicated

Answer 1

If you require pulpal anaesthesia of molars and premolars

Question 2

What nerve does the inferior alveolar nerve block target

Answer 2

The inferior alveolar nerve in the ptergyo-mandibular space therefore the incisive mental terminal branches are also anaesthetised

Question 3

Where does the anaesthetic solution diffuse to

Answer 3

The lingual nerve, so it is also targeted

Question 4

What does the inferior alveolar nerve supply

Answer 4

The pulp of all mandibular teeth, aswel as the gingiva of the first molar

Question 5

What does the lingual nerve supply

Answer 5

The lingual gingiva, floor of mouth and anterior 2/3 of the tongue

Question 6

What is the target boney site for the inferior alveolar nerve block

Answer 6

Superior to the lingual, on the medial border of the ramus of the mandible - targets the inferior alveolar nerve before it enters the mandibular foramen

Question 7

What size of needed is required for the inferior alveolar nerve block

Answer 7

A long needle

Question 8

What’s the technique to apply to inferior alveolar nerve

Answer 8

• Palpate the coronoid notch
• Move finger medially to palpate the internal oblique reach
• Then identify the pterygo-temporal depression

Question 9

Why don’t we retract with our fingers

Answer 9

To prevent sharps injury

Question 10

How do we angle and insert the syringe

Answer 10

• Place syringe over contralateral premolars
• Height of insertion is usually 10mm above occlusal plane

Question 11

How much of the needle do we insert for the inferior alveolar nerve block

Answer 11

Approx. 20-25mm of the needle
Should be no resistance until you gently contact the bone

Question 12

How must we orientate the syringe during inferior alveolar nerve block

Answer 12

Parallel to the occlusal plane on the side of the injection