Which local anesthetic technique targets the posterior superior alveolar nerve?

The technique that effectively targets the posterior superior alveolar nerve is the PSA nerve block. This specific nerve block is designed to anesthetize the maxillary molars and the associated soft tissues by injecting anesthetic in proximity to the posterior superior alveolar nerve as it travels through the maxilla.

When performing this block, the clinician usually inserts the needle above the maxillary tuberosity, allowing for optimal delivery of anesthetic directly where the nerve branches off. This technique is particularly beneficial in procedures involving the maxillary molars, ensuring adequate pain control during dental treatments in that region.

The other options present different techniques aimed at different nerves. For instance, the infraorbital nerve block focuses on the infraorbital nerve, which supplies sensation to the anterior maxilla, the buccal nerve block targets the buccal nerve for the buccal soft tissues, and the greater palatine nerve block is aimed at the hard palate. Each of these has a distinct application and area of effect, which emphasizes the importance of selecting the appropriate technique depending on the area of dental treatment required.