How is local anesthesia typically administered?

Local anesthesia is typically administered by injection near the nerve. This method allows the anesthetic to directly block the nerve impulses in a specific area, providing localized pain relief for dental procedures. The precise injection near the nerve ensures effective numbing of the targeted region, which is especially important in dentistry where procedures may cause discomfort.

Oral administration of anesthesia is not commonly used due to the unpredictable absorption rates and the time it takes for the anesthetic to take effect. While intravenous administration is effective for sedation and general anesthesia, it tends to be reserved for more complex procedures rather than for local anesthesia. Inhalation through anesthetic gas is more associated with general anesthesia, impacting the entire body rather than providing localized pain relief. Therefore, the injection technique remains the most effective method for achieving localized numbness in dental practices.