Topical Anesthetic
Dental topical anesthetic is used to make injections more comfortable and reduce pain and discomfort for patients receiving dental treatment. The active ingredients found in many topical anesthetics are benzocaine, xylocaine, and eugenol. These substances numb the soft tissue prior to the injection. The numbing effect is temporary and will last from 10 to 15 minutes.
Topical anesthetic is commonly manufactured in a gel form, but is also available as a liquid, ointment, or aerosol spray. The aerosol spray can be used to temporarily numb the soft palate for patients with a strong gag reflex.
Mint, raspberry, bubble gum, cherry, and strawberry are popular flavors. Opahl, Topex, and Hurricane are some topical anesthetic brands. Several companies manufacture topical anesthetic including Crosstex, Keystone, Medicom, Mydent, Septodont, and Sunstar.
Topical anesthetic is used to make injections more comfortable and reduce pain and discomfort during dental treatments. Benzocaine is a common active ingredient.