376 - Local Anesthetic Knowledge of Dental Healthcare Providers

Abstract:

Purpose: This study evaluated the accuracy of local anesthesia calculations among different dental provider groups (pediatric dentist, pediatric dental resident, general dentist, dental hygienist and dental student) for the pediatric and adult patient populations.

Methods: A questionnaire was distributed at the 2025 AAPD Annual Session to assess knowledge of dosing calculations for local anesthetics. The survey included three demographic questions and nine questions regarding dose calculation and volume conversion. Responses were scored as incorrect, almost correct (±10%), and correct. A total of 76 completed surveys were collected. Responses were analyzed to determine accuracy rates and compare performance across provider categories.

Results: The percent correct across all provider groups (almost correct (±10%), correct) (36%, 29%), pediatric dentist (40%, 30%), pediatric dental resident (38%, 33%), general dentist (8%), hygienist (0%), dental student (31%, 22%). After removing 3 questions regarding adult maximum dosage, the percent correct across all provider groups: (almost correct (±10%), correct) pediatric dentist (57%, 43%), pediatric dental resident (56%, 48%), general dentist (12.5%), hygienist (0%), dental student (42%, 29%). Analysis revealed that providers generally could more accurately report the number of milligrams in a standard dental cartridge than in a mathematically simple arbitrary volume.

Conclusions: Findings indicate inaccuracies in local anesthesia dosing knowledge across all dental provider groups. These results highlight the lack of education regarding local anesthesia calculations in pre-doctoral training. Emphasis should be placed on education focused on safe dosing practices to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes in clinical settings.

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