Evaluate Buffering Local Anesthetic in Inflamed Teeth

This randomized, controlled, double-blinded, split-mouth clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of buffering local anesthetic solution with sodium bicarbonate in the extraction of infected and inflamed primary molars in children. Infected tissues tend to have a lower PH , which can limit the effectiveness of local anesthetics by reducing the proportion of the active, non-ionized drug form. buffering with sodium bicarbonate improve anesthetic performance by raising the pH of the solution, enhancing its diffusion and clinical effectiveness.

The study included 20 healthy children aged 6 to 10 years, each with two infected or inflamed primary molars located on opposite sides of the maxilla. A split-mouth design was employed, where each child received a standard local anesthetic solution - lidocaine 2% with epinephrine 1:80,000 - on one side, and a buffered solution (alkalinized with sodium bicarbonate) on the contralateral side.

To assess anesthetic efficacy, three parameters were measured: pulse rate (as a physiologic indicator of pain), the Sound-Eye-Motor (SEM) scale (for behavioral response), and the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (for subjective pain reporting). Onset time of anesthesia was also recorded.

The study aims to determine whether buffering lidocaine with sodium bicarbonate improves pain control and onset time during pediatric dental extractions in inflamed and infected tissues.

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 6 to 10 years with bilateral maxillary first or second primary molars indicated for extraction due to infection and inflammation.
• Presence of clinical signs of inflammation (e.g., redness, swelling) in the gingiva surrounding the affected teeth.
• Medically healthy children with no systemic diseases or cognitive disabilities.
• Children with positive or definitely positive behavior according to the Frankl Behavior Rating Scale.
• No intake of medications that may interfere with pain perception during the 24 hours preceding the treatment session.

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of systemic medical conditions.
• Children with negative or definitely negative behavior according to the Frankl Behavior Rating Scale.
• Known allergy to the local anesthetic agent.