Which topical anesthetic is most commonly used?

Lidocaine is widely recognized as the most commonly used topical anesthetic in dental practice. Its effectiveness in blocking nerve signals during procedures makes it a preferred choice for many dental professionals. Lidocaine provides rapid onset and a relatively long duration of action, which is crucial in managing patient comfort during various dental treatments.

Benzocaine, while also a topical anesthetic, is primarily used for surface anesthesia and has a shorter duration compared to lidocaine. Betadine and iodine are antiseptics rather than anesthetics, used for disinfecting skin and preventing infections, and do not function to numb the area. Therefore, their roles do not align with the needs for topical anesthesia in dental procedures. Lidocaine's balanced profile of efficacy and safety further solidifies its status as the standard choice for topical anesthesia in dentistry.