Investigating Smoking and Local Anesthesia Usage - A Prospective Study

Background: This prospective observational study aimed to investigate the influence of smoking on the quantity of local anesthesia required for asymptomatic patients. Methods: A total of 154 participants were included and split into smoking and nonsmoking groups. Medically healthy asymptomatic patients attending Ajman University dental clinics were considered. Experienced dentists conducted examinations, diagnoses, and local anesthesia administration. Demographic details, age, smoking type, and intensity were collected. The smoking group was further classified based on the daily duration of smoking for shisha and vaping, as well as the number of cigarettes for conventional smoking. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, Version 28.0. (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp)). Results: No statistically significant difference observed in the administered amount of local anesthesia concerning the variables examined: age, gender, tooth treated, and dental procedure performed (P = 0.204). Neither the type nor the quantity of smoking exhibited a notable impact on the quantity of local anesthesia administered to asymptomatic patients (P = 0.307, 0.959), respectively. Conclusion: Although smoking type and quantity did not significantly affect anesthesia, the findings underscore the importance of considering various factors influencing treatment outcomes. Recognizing smoking’s potential impact, it is crucial for dentists to educate patients about its harmful effects on dental and general health.