What is a common risk associated with mandibular nerve blocks?

• A. Hematoma risk
• B. Infection risk
• C. Nerve injury or paresthesia
• D. Systemic toxicity risk

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is that the most commonly observed complication of a mandibular nerve block is injury to the nerve itself, resulting in paresthesia. These blocks place the needle in close proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve within the pterygomandibular space, so even with careful technique, the nerve can be traumatized or the anesthetic can irritate it. This can produce temporary numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the nerve’s distribution (such as the lower lip and chin), and in some cases these sensory changes may last longer.

Other risks like hematoma, infection, or systemic toxicity can occur with any injection, but they are not as specifically associated with mandibular nerve blocks or as common as nerve-related sensory changes. Proper technique, asepsis, and cautious dosing reduce these risks.