ABSTRACT:
AIM: To compare the pain perception level between topical benzocaine gel and injected lidocaine during scaling and root planing procedures. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of topical gel versus injected local infiltration/block anaesthesia towards patients’ pain while undergoing periodontal procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 20 systemically healthy chronic periodontitis patients are to be selected from the outpatient department of Saveetha Dental College. Before scaling and root planing procedures, the dental quadrants on one side is assigned to receive topical 20% benzocaine gel or injection anaesthesia using 2% lidocaine. Quadrant on the other side will receive the alternative. Randomisation done using paper chit method. Pain perception and patients’ preference of choice of anaesthesia is to be assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Numerical Rating Scale(NRS). RESULTS: Injection anaesthesia was associated with a little higher preference in VAS scale and numerical rating scales than the gel group, but the variance was not statistically significant (P=0.506 and P=0.180). CONCLUSION: Even though there was a slight preference to injection, it can be concluded that 20% benzocaine gel be a valued substitute for injected 2% lignocaine anaesthesia during SRP/curettage which can decrease the anxiety and distress associated with it.