Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 2% lidocaine and 4% Articaine in paediatric patients during Needle insertion by Conventional and Alternative technique of local Anasthesia

Efficacy of 2% lidocaine and 4% Articaine in paediatric patients

Abstract

Background: Local anesthesia is an essential part of many dental procedures, particularly in pediatric patients who may be fearful or anxious during treatment. Two of the most commonly used local anesthetics are 2% lidocaine and 4% articaine, but there is ongoing debate about which one is more effective. Additionally, the technique used for administering local anesthesia can also impact pain perception during needle insertion. This topic aims to compare the efficacy of 2% lidocaine and 4% articaine, as well as to evaluate the pain perception of pediatric patients during needle insertion using both conventional and alternative techniques of local anesthesia.

Methodology: A total of 180 pediatric patients were included in the study, and they were randomly assigned to receive either 2% lidocaine or 4% articaine using either conventional or alternative techniques. The study included pediatric patients aged 4-12 years, who required dental treatment involving local anesthesia assigned to the following groups. Group 1: 2% lidocaine with conventional technique of local anesthesia; Group 2: 2% lidocaine with alternative technique of local anesthesia; Group 3: 4% articaine with conventional technique of local anesthesia; Group 4: 4% articaine with alternative technique of local anesthesia. Outcome assessed were onset and duration of anesthesia.

Results:  The results showed that the use of 4% articaine was more effective in increasing the duration of anesthesia and a faster onset  than 2% lidocaine, regardless of the technique used. Additionally, the alternative technique was found to be less painful than the conventional technique.

Conclusion: This study provides important insights into the use of local anesthesia in pediatric patients and highlights the potential benefits of using 4% articaine and alternative techniques for reducing pain and discomfort during needle insertion.