What is a common complication associated with the inferior alveolar nerve block?

Trismus, which is the inability to fully open the jaw due to muscle spasms or inflammation, is a recognized and common complication associated with the inferior alveolar nerve block. This complication arises from trauma to the muscles of mastication or the surrounding tissues during the injection process. Factors contributing to trismus include the needle's penetration into the pterygoid muscles or hematoma formation that can cause restricted movement.

While trismus can be uncomfortable and temporarily limit function, it is typically self-limiting and resolves with time and appropriate interventions. Understanding this complication highlights the importance of technique and careful injection sites to minimize the risk of such adverse effects during local anesthesia administration. The other options present complications that are either less common or not directly related to the inferior alveolar nerve block itself.