The periodontal ligament (PDL) injection: an alternative to inferior alveolar nerve block.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) injection for mandibular anesthesia in isolated regions was evaluated, using both a conventional syringe and two devices designed for this procedure. A high success rate was achieved, with a low incidence of adverse reaction and highly favorable comment from both patients and administrators. Duration of pulpal anesthesia following the technique described proved adequate for most dental procedures. The newer devices appear to have some advantage over the conventional syringe technique. However, the PDL injection technique can readily be used with any conventional syringe. Further study is recommended to determine the response of periodontal and pulpal tissues.