Dental clinics of North America
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This article provides a brief review of the acute pain mechanism as it relates to the effects of a surgical insult. A brief understanding of the physiologic modulation of acute pain establishes a rational framework for the concept of preemptive and postoperative analgesia. A brief review of commonly used analgesic agents is presented. Research in pain management and new drug development is ongoing as new concepts in neurophysiology and pharmacology are being elucidated.
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This article outlines the different classes of local anesthetics available for dental procedures. It also gives an overview of the mechanism of action and metabolism of each different class of local anesthetic. ⋯ The techniques for the administration of local anesthetics with the relevant anatomy are explained. An overview is given of the possible complications that can occur because of local anesthetic use and their possible treatment options.