CLEAR EXPLANATIONS · ENHANCE DENTAL MELBOURNE
Gentle dental injections, with time to feel ready
Gentle dental injections begin with listening. If needles make you anxious, tell our team before your visit. At Enhance Dental, Dr Joseph Paino explains the numbing process and uses comfort measures, including CALAJECT computer-controlled delivery when appropriate.
What does CALAJECT do?
CALAJECT is a system for controlled delivery of local anaesthetic through a dental needle. It helps manage the flow of the solution during an injection. The aim is a more comfortable experience; it is not a needle-free treatment and does not guarantee that you will feel nothing. The anaesthetic choice and technique still depend on the procedure and your individual needs.
Numbing cream and a measured approach
Topical numbing cream may be applied before an injection to help with the surface sensation. It is one part of the process, not a substitute for deeper local anaesthesia when that is needed. We explain what is happening, allow time for the anaesthetic to take effect and check comfort before proceeding.
What does the research show?
A 2024 systematic review of computer-controlled anaesthetic delivery reported lower pain perception in the included trials, but systems, injection sites and study methods varied. A small randomized trial specifically examining CALAJECT for palatal injections also reported lower average pain. These findings support discussing a comfort option; they do not mean every injection or every patient has the same experience.
Let us know what worries you
Some people are worried about seeing a needle, others about the sensation or feeling unable to pause. Tell us what happened in a previous visit and what you would prefer us to explain. We can agree on a stop signal and discuss whether a short initial discussion or staged visit would help. You do not need to minimise your concerns.
Local anaesthetic and sedation are different
Local anaesthetic numbs the treatment area. Sedation aims to reduce anxiety and awareness and involves a separate assessment, practitioner arrangements and instructions. Sedation may be considered for selected patients, but it is not required for everyone who is nervous and does not replace the need for appropriate local anaesthesia.
After the appointment
Follow the aftercare advice given for your procedure and anaesthetic. While an area remains numb, take care to avoid biting the lip, cheek or tongue and avoid injury from hot food or drink. Contact the practice if you are concerned about symptoms or the recovery described to you. Your instructions are tailored to the treatment performed.
Care planned around your needs
At Enhance Dental, we explain what is proposed, the alternatives and the relevant fees before treatment. Bring questions about your medical or dental history and tell us what would help you feel prepared.
Read our guide for nervous patients or explore dental sedation.
Gentle dental injections: helpful questions
Are gentle dental injections completely pain-free?
We aim to reduce discomfort, but cannot promise a sensation-free injection. The site, inflammation, technique and individual experience all matter. Tell us if you need a pause or feel discomfort.
Does CALAJECT still use a needle?
Yes. It controls delivery of local anaesthetic through a needle. Describing it as needle-free would be inaccurate.
Is numbing cream enough for a filling?
That depends on the procedure and tooth. Topical cream acts at the surface and may be used before an injection; your dentist explains what level of local anaesthesia is appropriate.
Can I discuss anxiety before treatment starts?
Yes. Mention it when booking and again at the visit. We can explain the appointment, ask about your preferences and agree on a way to pause.
Can children ask for help with injection worries?
Tell us about your child’s previous experiences and concerns when booking. The approach is tailored to their age, needs and procedure, with referral where appropriate.
Does everyone who is anxious need sedation?
No. Discussion, communication and comfort measures may be sufficient for some people. Sedation is considered separately when appropriate after assessment.
Where can I ask about a gentle dental injection appointment?
Call Enhance Dental on (03) 9533 8488 or send an enquiry. We are at Level 2, Suite 219, 566 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004. For urgent concerns, phone rather than relying on an online response.
Research and further reading
2024 systematic review: computer-controlled local anaesthesia; Randomized CALAJECT palatal-injection trial. Studies describe average findings, not a promise of an individual experience.
This general information does not replace an assessment of your teeth, medical history and treatment needs.
Have a question about your care?
Contact our team to discuss an appointment with Dr Joseph Paino. Our address is Level 2, Suite 219, 566 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004, with designated free patient parking on Queens Lane.
Office hours: Monday 8 am–7 pm; Tuesday–Thursday 7.30 am–4 pm; Friday 7.30 am–12.30 pm. Appointment availability and clinical hours vary.