The Dr. Phil Klein Dental Podcast · 2026-06-01 · 37 min
Why does the inferior alveolar nerve block fail so often, and what can clinicians do to dramatically improve their success rates in challenging cases? Dr. David Isen, an anesthesia specialist from Toronto, Canada, brings decades of expertise to this conversation. His anesthesia-based practice focuses on patients requiring intravenous sedation, advanced local anesthetic techniques, and those with special medical needs or dental phobia. With over 400 presentations worldwide on medical emergencies, local anesthesia, and sedation techniques, Dr. Isen has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and consulted for dental and pharmaceutical companies. This episode examines the anatomical and physiological factors that contribute to mandibular block failures, from mandibular shape variations to foramen location inconsistencies. The discussion reveals why the inferior alveolar nerve block has the highest failure rate of any nerve block in the human body and provides evidence-based solutions for improving clinical outcomes. Special attention is given to the role of accessory innervation and advanced anesthetic selection strategies.
Other episodes covering the same guests and topics, from across The B2B Podcast Index.
Ep. 794 - Health-Centered Dentistry: A Smarter Path to Improved Clinical Outcomes and Practice Growth58 / 100Ep. 781 - Why Dentists and Hygienists Are in Pain - and How Better Ergonomics Can Save Your Career66 / 100Ep. 793 - Mastering Porcelain Veneers: From Digital Wax-Up to Post-Insertion Visit
Ep. 792 - Out of Survival Mode: Building the Practice You LoveEp. 791 - The Latest in Composite Dentistry: Universal Composites, Bonding & Clinical Pearls
