periodontal ligament injection
A supplemental intraligamentary technique in which anesthetic solution is injected under pressure into the periodontal ligament space surrounding a tooth root.
Full Definition
The periodontal ligament (PDL) injection delivers local anesthetic directly into the narrow space between the tooth root and the alveolar bone. High injection pressure forces the solution through the cribriform plate and into the adjacent cancellous bone, achieving rapid and highly localised pulpal anesthesia. Because effect is limited to one or two teeth, it minimises collateral soft-tissue numbness. Editors should note that 'intraligamentary injection' is the older synonym; contemporary guidelines favour 'periodontal ligament injection.' It is distinct from intraosseous anesthesia, which requires cortical plate perforation with a separate device.
Usage
Usage note: PDL is acceptable on second reference once the full term is established; avoid the outdated term 'intraligamentary injection' in contemporary clinical writing unless quoting an older source.
In Context
- "The technique section specified a periodontal ligament injection as the preferred supplemental method for achieving anesthesia in mandibular first molars with irreversible pulpitis." — Endodontics clinical textbook chapter
- "Editors should not substitute 'PDL injection' with 'intraosseous anesthesia,' as the two techniques differ in needle placement and device requirements." — Style guide annotation