Which local anesthetic agent is most commonly used in dentistry?

Lidocaine is the most commonly used local anesthetic in dentistry due to its effectiveness, quick onset of action, and reliable duration of anesthesia. It has a favorable safety profile, making it a preferred choice among dental professionals for a wide variety of procedures. Lidocaine can be used for both infiltration and nerve block anesthesia and is effective in managing pain during dental treatments.

Its ease of use and versatility contribute to its popularity, allowing dental practitioners to reliably achieve anesthesia for different types of dental work. The attributes of lidocaine, such as its rapid absorption and minimal risk of systemic toxicity when used within recommended guidelines, further cement its position as the standard local anesthetic in dental practice.

Other agents, while useful in specific situations or for particular patient needs, do not match the widespread application and familiarity of lidocaine. For instance, bupivacaine is generally utilized for longer procedures due to its extended duration of action but is not used as frequently for routine dental work. Mepivacaine and articaine have their uses as well; however, they are typically not the first choice in many dental scenarios compared to lidocaine.