An unforeseen complication arising from inferior alveolar nerve block: is anemia possible?

Complications after administration of local anesthesia for dental procedures are well recognized. We present here 2 cases of patients with anemic areas on their faces resulting from inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). The precise cause of this complication is unknown; however, it may be derived from anastomosis of the maxillary artery, rapid injection of local anesthetic solution, misdirection of the needle, and spread of the solution to the upper region of the mandible. Although neurologic occurrences resulting from IANB are rare, dentists should keep in mind that certain dental procedures such as administering IANB could cause anemic areas on the face. Henceforth, dentists should consider the possibility of anemia after administration of IANB and pay attention to avoid complications during the procedure.