Name a common local anesthetic used in dentistry.

Lidocaine is widely used in dentistry as a local anesthetic due to its effectiveness, fast onset, and relatively low toxicity. It is suitable for various dental procedures, including general restorative work, extractions, and more invasive surgeries. Lidocaine has a favorable profile, allowing for both infiltration and nerve block techniques, which makes it versatile for different clinical situations.

Bupivacaine, while also effective and longer-lasting, is generally used for more extensive procedures due to its prolonged duration of action. Procaine is less commonly used today, as it has a slower onset and is less effective for longer dental procedures. Articaine has gained popularity for its efficacy and ability to penetrate bone well, but it may not be as universally used as lidocaine in everyday practice. Thus, lidocaine remains the most commonly recognized and utilized local anesthetic in the dental field.