The effectiveness of Oraqix versus TAC(a) for placement of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices

Objective: To test the hypothesis that there is no difference in the actions and effectiveness of topical anesthetics TAC Alternate (TAC((a))) and Oraqix in placing temporary anchorage devices (TADs). Materials and Methods: Each topical anesthetic was placed on opposing sides in the maxilla or mandible using blinded applicators for 3-9 minutes followed by the TAD placement. A total of 21 patients ranging from 10-25 years old were studied. During the procedure the primary investigator (PI) used the sound, eye, and motor scale to measure the movements elicited by the patient. The PI also noted the time taken for the topical anesthetic to be effective and the amount that was applied. Following the placement of the TADs, the patients were given the Wong-Baker FACES Scale and the Visual Analog Scale to rate the degree of discomfort. The nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to test the effectiveness of the treatments based on the three ordinal scales, the dosage, and the onset time. Results: The time it took for the TAC((a)) to provide adequate anesthesia averaged 4.43 minutes and for Oraqix the time was 6.33 minutes (P =.00). The minimum dosage of TAC((a)) to provide adequate anesthesia averaged 0.25 mL, and for Oraqix the minimum dosage averaged 0.31 mL (P =.00). Conclusions: The hypothesis was rejected. TAC((a)) was more effective than Oraqix in placing TADs with a recommended dose of 0.20-0.30 mL and a minimum application time of 3 minutes. (Angle Orthod. 2011; 81:754-759.)