Randomised controlled trial of a microneedle patch with a topical anaesthetic for relieving the pain of dental injections

To determine whether a microneedle patch combined with 5% topical lidocaine reduces dental injection pain more than without microneedles lidocaine. This proof of principle randomised, two-treatment, double-blind, crossover split-unit design study in 16 healthy participants investigated levels perceived from 3 increasing provoking challenges, when gel was applied to the oral mucosa and no microneedles, prior infiltration local anaesthesia on 2 visits. Pain assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) 4-point verbal rating (VRS). 15 completed study. Mean scores, lower at buccal sites, increased both groups across challenges 1−3: Test palatal 5.1, 11.9, 26.8; 0.7, 2.8, 18.3; Control 12.3, 18.7, 39.5; 4.0, 6.9, 30.6. The plus significantly lowered VAS scores sites for all biggest mean difference seen palatally after challenge (12.7, p < 0.001). VRS were also reduced test compared control (p = 0.014). Buccal favoured patch, 0.025). No adverse events occurred. Prior application experienced infiltration. Microneedle use setting offers prospect improving degree depth topically anaesthetic gel, itself causing any pain. Dental injections are associated fear anxiety. Application anaesthetic, delivery this procedure. novel technique may allay patients’ apprehension improve quality life outcomes.