What is the common use of benzocaine in dental practices?

Benzocaine is commonly used in dental practices as a topical anesthetic. Topical anesthetics, like benzocaine, are applied directly to the mucous membranes in the mouth to provide local pain relief during dental procedures. This can help to prepare the area before more invasive treatments, such as injections, are performed, making it more comfortable for the patient.

Its effectiveness comes from its ability to block nerve signals in the area where it is applied, leading to a temporary numbness of the surface tissues. This property is particularly useful in situations where a patient may experience discomfort from the manipulation of tissues or during the application of local anesthetic injections.

In contrast, local anesthetic injections are typically performed with other agents that provide deeper and more prolonged anesthesia by affecting nerves at a greater depth. Disinfecting instruments and treating dental abscesses involve entirely different procedures and types of medications that do not relate to the anesthetic use of benzocaine.