Since we first published this post last year, the IABDM has continued to investigate claims about graphene oxide in dental anesthetics. Earlier this spring, they released a video presentation by an expert in the field, reviewing the data and drawing conclusions from the most current research. You can watch that presentation here.
Lately, we’ve been hearing more often from patients concerned about graphene oxide in dental anesthetics. The worries typically stem from online claims that such anesthetics may damage cells or affect the composition of the blood or harm neural tissue – even that they can “self-assemble” or “build networks” in the body.
As a biological practice committed to your mouth/body health and science-based dentistry, we think it’s important to address these concerns head-on.
What You Need to Know About Dental Anesthetics
The local anesthetics we use during invasive procedures – like getting a filling or crown – and oral surgeries are designed specifically to prevent pain during treatment by blocking nerve signals. They typically include the anesthetic agent itself, stabilizers or preservatives, pH adjusters, and sterile water or saline. Some include a vasoconstrictor – typically epinephrine – to help them last longer.
Graphene oxide is created by treating graphite with oxidizing agents. This creates a water-soluble substance that scientists continue to study for potential uses. However, it’s not widely used. In fact, only one dental anesthetic is known to contain it, and that’s Exparel, which lasts for three days and is used exclusively in patients with dry socket.
We don’t use it in our own practice. It’s just not an anesthetic that biological dentists use.
Due to growing patient concerns, the International Academy of Biological Dentistry & Medicine (IABDM) recently commissioned a nanotoxicologist to test the anesthetics that are commonly used by biological dentists. The results? Not a single anesthetic tested positive for graphene oxide.
Not one.
Even using the most advanced available technology to test for graphene oxide or the potential for anesthetics to harm in the ways that some have claimed, researchers have been unable to produce evidence that would meet scientific standards.
The International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology (IAOMT) has also been investigating the various claims being made about graphene oxide in dental anesthetics and has likewise found no scientific evidence backing them up.
Our Commitment to Your Safety
Here at Rehme Dental Care, we prioritize your health and safety above everything. None of the aesthetics we use are known to contain graphene oxide or any other non-essential ingredients.
For patients who remain concerned, we offer epinephrine-free anesthetics, which further reduce the likelihood of exposure to potential contaminants. Biocompatibility testing is an option, as well, to make sure that whatever we use is a good match for their biochemistry.
What we don’t recommend is avoiding necessary dental care. Dental issues that are ignored can lead to deeper infections, which themselves can cause systemic health problems – even life-threatening ones.
Rest assured that, as a science-based practice, we continue to monitor the situation and emerging research carefully so we stay up-to-date on the latest findings regarding anesthetics and other dental materials. For now, though, there’s just not enough evidence to warrant drastic changes to our protocols.
We welcome any questions you might have about our procedures and materials. Please don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with us during your next visit.
