Local Anesthesia Evaluator Practice Exam

Which preventive measure is most effective to reduce cheek biting during dental procedures?

Use a short duration anesthetic Cotton rolls in the buccal area Warn parent Protective eyewear

Correct Answer:

Use a short duration anesthetic

Explanation:

Cheek biting during a dental procedure is mainly driven by numbness from local anesthesia. If the numbing effect lasts a long time, the patient loses protective sensation in the cheek and may accidentally bite or chew the numb tissue, risking tissue injury after the procedure. Using a short-duration anesthetic keeps the cheek insensate for a shorter period, reducing the window during which self-trauma can occur and allowing sensation to return sooner. Other measures like cotton rolls, warning a parent, or protective eyewear address other needs (moisture control, communication, or eye safety) but don’t prevent numbness-related cheek biting.

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