Pinch Perfect: Precision, Comfort, and Confidence in Local Anesthesia

Presented by: Paige McEvoy

Course Description:

This course introduces dental hygiene students to the fundamental principles and techniques of local anesthesia administration. Emphasis is placed on anatomical landmarks, injection techniques, anesthetic selection, and pain management strategies. Students will gain hands-on experience and learn practical tips and tricks to improve patient comfort, build confidence, and ensure safe and effective delivery of local anesthesia in clinical settings.

Course objectives:

At the conclusion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Demonstrate foundational knowledge of local anesthesia injection techniques, and anatomical landmarks relevant to dental hygiene procedures. Students will identify and apply anatomical knowledge to safely and accurately administer local anesthesia.
• Perform safe and effective administration of local infiltration and nerve block techniques commonly used in dental hygiene care. Students will demonstrate proper technique, patient positioning, and ergonomic handling of syringes for both maxillary and mandibular injections.
• Assess patient-specific factors to determine appropriate anesthetic selection, dosage, and injection method. Students will evaluate patient medical histories, anxiety levels, and anatomical variations to customize anesthesia plans that optimize comfort and safety.
• Apply pain management strategies and practical "tips and tricks" to reduce patient discomfort and improve injection success. Students will incorporate techniques such as distraction, topical placement, needle angulation, and communication strategies to increase patient trust and reduce procedural anxiety.
• Recognize and respond appropriately to adverse reactions or complications associated with local anesthesia. Students will demonstrate knowledge of emergency protocols, side effect management, and post-operative care related to anesthetic complications.

About the presenter:

After obtaining a Bachelor of Science from the University of Northern Colorado in 1997 Paige began her career in dentistry as a dental assistant in 2000. She became a registered dental hygienist in 2005 after graduating from the Community College of Denver Dental Hygiene program. She practiced primarily in periodontal practices and provided temporary hygiene services through her company Temporary Toothpickers, LLC and worked providing CPR certifications through her company RDH To the Rescue, LLC.

In 2012 Paige joined the Community College of Denver Dental Hygiene Program where she was faculty and clinical coordinator for 7 years and most recently served as Professor, Program Director, and Continuing Education Coordinator for the dental hygiene program. Paige now serves as Associate Dean of Allied Health at Arapahoe Community College. She also served two full terms on the Colorado Dental Board where she was Panel Chair, Full Board Vice Chair, and CE Reviewer. Paige received her Master of Dental Hygiene Education at the University of Missouri Kansas City and a Doctor of Education with an emphasis in Leadership for Educational Equity from The University of Colorado.

About this Student Webinar Program:

This is an interactive student webinar designed specifically for current students and recent grads. While your camera will be off, we encourage lively discussion in the chat box—ask questions, share takeaways, and connect with other future professionals!

This format is designed to be flexible and student-friendly, so feel free to tune in between classes, during your commute, or wherever you may be. Whether you're soaking up info on the go or participating from your couch, we're glad you're here!

Check out our upcoming events:

Upcoming Events