National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

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What role does a vasoconstrictor play in local anesthetics?

  1. Enhances the effects of the anesthetic

  2. Slows down the absorption of the anesthetic

  3. Increases the pain tolerance of the patient

  4. Improves the taste of the anesthetic

The correct answer is: Slows down the absorption of the anesthetic

The role of a vasoconstrictor in local anesthetics is primarily to slow down the absorption of the anesthetic into the bloodstream. By constricting the blood vessels at the site of injection, the vasoconstrictor reduces blood flow, which prolongs the action of the anesthetic. This means that the anesthetic can stay localized in the desired area for a longer period, providing extended pain control without the need for additional injections. Additionally, by decreasing the absorption into the systemic circulation, vasoconstrictors help minimize potential side effects of the anesthetic that may occur if it entered the bloodstream rapidly. As such, the use of vasoconstrictors is vital in improving the efficacy and safety of local anesthetic procedures, making the local anesthetic more effective for the intended purpose.

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