Dentistry:i do not mind lidocaine injections in the lower mouth. at the same time, a palate shot could make me want to postpone an appn't. any advice?

Talk to the Dr: Sometimes the palatal injection may not be necessary, or it may be done in a different less pleasant way. In my office we give Palatal injection only for surgery. For routine dentistry I use a different type of anesthetic and different technique to eliminate or minimize any pain when the palate is involved. You may want to look for a dentist who can take his time and minimize your pain.

VibraJect : According to statistics 50% of the population are fearful of the dental experience due to a dental injections. VibraJect allows the dentist to consistently give more comfortable injections, minimizing pain and stress. Those patients who have a phobia of dental injections,are doing well with VibraJect device. The technique can be used for palatal injections as well with the same success rate.

Putting off...: Putting of treatment that you require will only allow the problem to worsen, make the "fix" more complex and more expensive. Talk to your Dentist, there are alternatives.

Palatal shot: I cannot remember the last time I placed this injection, as I do not perform surgery that would require it. Most routine restorative dental procedures would not require this injection. If needed, there are very potent topical anesthetic formulations, that reduce the pain from this shot. Also, the SLOWER the dentist injects, the LESS painful.

Rarely needed: A palatial shot is rarely required, especially if your dentist uses a local anesthesia called Articaine, Asti has tremendous penetration power. A shot on the outside can often move the numbness towards the palate and than your dentist if needed can add a little at a time towards the palate. It will be virtually painless.

Ask: Ask your Dentist if the palatal injection is necessary. I have been practicing for 34 years and almost never have to inject the palate. Often we can inject from the cheek side in between the teeth and it will carry over onto the inside. Then if we really need the palatal area numb, we can start where you are already numb. Pressure with the other end of the mirror handle next to the needle helps.