Among the various local anesthetic techniques available, the Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block (IANB) has long been considered the standard approach.
However, its relatively high failure rate—often attributed to anatomical variations, accessory innervation, and operator-dependent factors—has prompted clinicians and researchers to explore alternative techniques that may offer more predictable outcomes.
The Gow-Gates mandibular nerve block has emerged as a compelling alternative, aiming to anesthetize the mandibular nerve trunk before it branches, thereby providing broader and potentially more consistent anesthesia.
This technique has been suggested to reduce the incidence of inadequate pulpal anesthesia, minimize the need for supplemental injections, and improve patient comfort during surgical procedures involving mandibular molars.
The article “Comparison of Efficacy of Gow-Gates Mandibular Nerve Block and Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block for the Extraction of Mandibular Molars” offers a clinically relevant comparison between these two anesthetic techniques.
By evaluating parameters such as onset time, success rate, depth of anesthesia, and overall clinical effectiveness, the study provides valuable evidence to guide clinicians in selecting the most appropriate anesthetic approach for routine and complex mandibular extractions.
► BOOK 2022: Local Anesthesia for Dental Professionals
Understanding the strengths and limitations of each technique is essential for improving procedural efficiency, patient experience, and surgical outcomes in daily dental practice.
📄 For a detailed analysis of methodology, results, and clinical implications, we invite you to read the full article in PDF format and explore the evidence supporting each anesthetic technique in mandibular molar extractions.

