Needle rotation also assists the cutting efficiency of the needle, helping to reduce
the force needed to move the needle forward, so insertion is easier and
smoother. In force tests using a digital scale, the force of the needle without
rotation registers over 70 grams. With rotation of the needle, the force is
dramatically reduced to just over 30 grams. This force reduction is very important
in dense palatal tissue to achieve a comfortable injection. Also, with less force
needed for penetration, the handpiece can be held with a light, delicate touch
that maximizes tactile feel and control.
Benefits for the Practitioner
Potential benefits of the technique include:
1. Fewer “missed” mandibular block injections
3
2. Fewer re-injections of anesthetic.
3. More rapid onset of local anesthesia.
4. Reduced volume of anesthetic necessary to achieve anesthesia.
5. Reduced post-operative discomfort (e.g. trismus) from fewer injections
5. Pre-Puncture Technique
for Palatal Injections
The palatal tissue is an area that requires careful attention to insure the most
comfortable injection experience. The pre-puncture is a method that should
significantly reduce the sensation of needle penetration. It relies on the torque of
the STA motor to generate a high fluid pressure at low volume. This literally
forces the anesthetic into the tissue prior to the actual needle penetration. The
technique is as follows:
Hochman M, Friedman M. Technique Article: Injection Dynamics For a Comfortable Palatal Injection. Manuscript in
Review