Dental Block Vs. Numbing Cream - Which is Better for Cosmetic Injections?
asked 3 years ago by Victoria Lynn in denton, tx
Latest answer by David J. Levens, MD
Question viewed 4,356 times
Tags: anesthesia, dental block
Why would the injector use a topical numbing cream verses a block, when the block is less painful for the patient? Is one better than the other?
4 answers to Dental Block Vs. Numbing Cream - Which is Better for Cosmetic Injections?
+1
Both are acceptable techniques
Nerve blocks are similar to the anesthesia administered by your dentist. Sometimes they work really well, sometimes not, sometimes too good, and last longer than desired.
An effective topical anesthetic should provide excellent anesthesia if properly compounded and properly used.
The block can provide profound anesthesia but may be too much for a filler injection. Therefore, I prefer topical anesthesia.
+1
Blocks vs. Topicals: Depends on the individual
It really depends upon the individual. Some patients don't require any topical. But that is the rare patient. I think it varies for different patients. I use topical for most patients. If they are very sensitive, I may perform a dental block after using an oral topical inside their mouth first. I tried to make my patients as comfortable as they want. It is always easier for both of us when the pateint is comfortable.
+1
Blocks work better
The dental blocks are more invasive than a topical cream, but are much better for pain relief. The block is performed by injecting 1 to 2 ccs of local anesthetic right next to where a major nerve group comes out of the bones of your face. The entire segment supplied by this nerve bundle then "falls asleep" for 1 to 4 hours. If the block is performed through the mouth using some numbing cream or spray at the injection site, it can be painless. There are relatively few nerve receptors...
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Michael A. Bogdan, MD
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
+1
Anesthesia for injections is a must
Only certain types of filler injections have lidocaine in them, making the injection less painful. The most popular products, however, do not.
For nasolabial folds, eyelids, lip corners, and marionette lines I always use a "dental" block. These areas are well anesthetized with a small local anesthesia block. This block takes effect almost immediately. I like to ensure my patient's comfort because it is critical for precise injections.
Other areas, such as the frown line or the lip...
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Richard W. Westreich, MD
Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgeon
Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgeon
