What is the purpose of a buccal (long buccal) block?

• A. Anesthetize Buccal Soft Tissue Adjacent to Molars
• B. Anesthetize Palatal Tissues
• C. Anesthetize the Tongue
• D. Provide Systemic Analgesia

Answer: (A)

The long buccal block is used to numb the buccal soft tissue and periosteum adjacent to the mandibular molars by inhibiting the long buccal nerve as it travels along the cheek area. This makes it the best choice when you need anesthesia of the cheek-side mucosa next to those teeth during procedures like extractions or restorative work where the patient’s bite or tissue contact would be uncomfortable. It does not affect the palatal tissues, which are supplied by the palatine nerves; it does not numb the tongue, which is served by the lingual nerve; and it does not provide systemic analgesia, which would come from medications taken systemically rather than a local injection.