Which local anesthetic agent is preferred for a confirmed hypersensitive patient?

For patients who are confirmed to be hypersensitive, the use of a local anesthetic agent without a vasoconstrictor is often preferred. Mepivacaine 3% without a vasoconstrictor is a suitable choice for these patients because it minimizes the risk of allergic reactions that may be associated with the preservatives in some vasoconstrictors like epinephrine or felypressin.

Local anesthetics generally work by blocking nerve signals in the area where they are injected, but the addition of a vasoconstrictor serves to prolong the effect of the anesthetic and reduce bleeding. However, in hypersensitive patients, the use of vasoconstrictors can trigger an adverse reaction. Therefore, using mepivacaine alone ensures effective anesthesia while mitigating the potential for hypersensitivity reactions.

This choice allows for effective pain management during dental procedures while remaining mindful of the patient's sensitivities, thereby providing a safer treatment option.