Name a common vasoconstrictor used with local anesthetics.

Epinephrine is a common vasoconstrictor used with local anesthetics due to its ability to constrict blood vessels, which helps to prolong the duration of the anesthesia and minimize bleeding at the surgical site. By reducing blood flow to the area where the local anesthetic is administered, epinephrine can enhance the efficacy of the anesthetic by allowing it to remain localized and active for a longer period of time. This combination is particularly beneficial in dental procedures where precise control over bleeding and pain management is crucial.

In contrast, nitrous oxide is an analgesic and anxiolytic agent rather than a vasoconstrictor, often used for sedation rather than pain control in local anesthetic formulations. Reserpine is an antihypertensive medication that does not have a role as a vasoconstrictor in conjunction with local anesthetics. Phenylephrine is also a vasoconstrictor, but it is less commonly used in dental practices compared to epinephrine, making epinephrine the standard choice in this context.