Which of the following is the most commonly used local anesthetic in dentistry?

Lidocaine is the most commonly used local anesthetic in dentistry due to its effectiveness, rapid onset, and relatively safe profile. It provides adequate anesthesia for most dental procedures and has a good track record in terms of patient safety and effectiveness. Lidocaine acts by temporarily blocking nerve impulses, which allows dental procedures to be performed painlessly.

Its chemical properties allow for quick absorption and an ideal duration of action, making it highly suitable for various types of dental treatments. In addition, lidocaine has a well-established history in clinical use, contributing to its widespread acceptance among dental professionals.

The other anesthetics listed, while useful in specific scenarios, are not as broadly employed as lidocaine. Bupivacaine, for instance, is often used for longer procedures or postoperative pain management due to its prolonged duration of action. Prilocaine is less commonly used because it can lead to methemoglobinemia in certain patients, and although mepivacaine is effective, it does not have the same level of popularity as lidocaine for general dental anesthesia.