What is the primary reason Articaine may be favored over Lidocaine?

Articaine is often favored over Lidocaine primarily due to its higher potency and effectiveness, which is related to its chemical structure that allows for better tissue penetration. One of the significant advantages of Articaine is its faster onset of action compared to Lidocaine, attributed to its high lipid solubility. This characteristic allows Articaine to quickly diffuse through nerve membranes. Although Articaine has a longer duration of action in some cases, it is particularly noted for its quick onset, making it a preferred choice in many dental procedures that require timely anesthesia.

Higher concentration can refer to the formulation strength available, but it is the faster onset that distinctly positions Articaine as a more favorable option in clinical scenarios requiring rapid anesthesia. Therefore, while cost and duration are considerations, the speed at which Articaine provides effective anesthesia is a crucial reason for its use over Lidocaine.