Which preservative is used in dental cartridges?
(A.) Sodium bisulfite
(B.) Sodium chloride
(C.) Sodium bisulfate
(D.) Methylparaben
Mini Boards Reviews for the National + Local Anesthesia Dental Hygiene Boards!
Answer: (A.) Sodium bisulfite
Sodium bisulfite (with an ”i”) is the antioxidant for vasoconstrictors. Some patients can be allergic to this substance, and a plain solution should be used if sulfite allergy is a concern. This chemical is also used to preserve food and other types of medication.
Sodium bisulfate (with an ”a”) is a different compound although it is spelled very similarly. It is used in metal finishing and cleaning products.
Sodium chloride is added to a dental cartridge to make the solution isotonic with body tissues.
Methylparaben prevents the growth of bacteria but is no longer added in single-use dental cartridges.
Other components of the dental cartridge include local anesthetic, vasoconstrictor, distilled water, and nitrogen gas.
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