During which procedure is the use of topical anesthetic most common?

Topical anesthetic is most commonly used during procedures where localized pain management is necessary to minimize discomfort, particularly during the insertion of needles or other instruments. In the context of filling cavities, the application of a topical anesthetic is often applied to numb the area around the tooth before the dentist administers a local anesthetic via injection. This approach helps the patient feel more comfortable and reduces the initial discomfort associated with the injection itself.

In contrast, while other procedures such as routine cleanings, tooth extractions, and root canal treatments may require anesthetics, they typically involve more extensive or deeper anesthesia. For instance, tooth extractions and root canals generally necessitate a local anesthetic rather than just a topical one due to the level of invasiveness and potential pain involved. Routine cleanings may not require any anesthetic, depending on the patient’s sensitivity and the nature of the cleaning.