Introduction to Local Anesthesia for the Dental Hygienist

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Session Description

Administering local anesthesia (LA) is a critical skill for dental hygienists and vital for providing comfortable and effective care during procedures like scaling and root planing. In Hawai‘i, dental hygienists are authorized to administer LA under the direct supervision of a dentist, but must first complete training in an accredited dental hygiene program, including a specified number of injections, to become licensed. Without proper education, the risk of complications such as nerve injury or incorrect dosage increases. Knowledge of dental anatomy, anesthetic pharmacology, and the prevention of potential complications is essential for patient safety. An online course in local anesthesia provides several benefits, offering flexibility and accessibility for dental hygiene students and professionals. This is especially important for those in remote areas or with busy schedules where in-person training may be unavailable. Online learning platforms also incorporate multimedia tools—such as videos and interactive activities—that enhance understanding of complex topics like anesthetic agents and their clinical applications. Research supports the need for foundational education: a study by Aboytes and Calleros (2017) revealed that 91% of participants felt prepared for the clinical portion of their local anesthesia course after completing the didactic component, highlighting the importance of a structured, comprehensive curriculum. Additionally, Thelen et al. (2023) and Buchanan et al. (2014) emphasize that dental hygiene students must master local anesthesia to ensure effective and safe patient care. An online didactic course is vital to ensuring that dental hygienists are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to administer anesthesia safely and competently.

Presenter(s)

Kari Riglos
Learning Design & Technology, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Wailuku, HI, USA

Kari Riglos, BA, AS, RDH, CDA, is a dedicated dental hygienist with over 20 years of experience in the field of dentistry. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry-Health Sciences with a Minor in Biology, an Associate of Science degree in Dental Hygiene, and a certificate in Dental Assisting. As a licensed Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), Kari teaches courses at the University of Hawai‘i Maui College Dental Hygiene Program, where she applies her extensive knowledge of both clinical practice and education.
Throughout her career, Kari has been committed to enhancing patient care through education and ongoing professional development. Her teaching philosophy combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge, focusing on developing critical thinking and hands-on skills. She is passionate about helping students build the technical expertise, confidence, and knowledge they need to excel in a dynamic dental field.
Kari’s professional goal is to integrate technology with solid theoretical foundations to create engaging and effective courses that accommodate diverse learning styles. By using these innovative methods, she ensures her students are well-equipped to provide high-quality care and stay adaptable to future advancements in dental hygiene.

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