This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of cold atmospheric plasma, a laser-like biophysical method, in reducing injection pain experienced during local infiltration anesthesia in dental treatments. The purpose is to determine whether applying cold atmospheric plasma before the injection can decrease the level of pain at the injection site and improve patient comfort.

In this study, to help reduce the pain felt during the dental injection, some patients will receive a cold plasma application before the needle is administered. The device is held close to the gum area where the injection will be given-without touching the tissue-for about one minute to help the area relax. Afterwards, the standard local anesthetic injection is performed. On the opposite side of the mouth, only the normal injection will be given. Pain levels on both sides and patient satisfaction will be recorded through questions asked after the procedure.

If you choose to participate in this research, your dental treatments will still be completed, and the pain felt during the injection may be reduced. Additionally, by participating, you will contribute to scientific knowledge and to the development of a potential future treatment option.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being between 18 and 40 years of age;
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification I (systemically healthy);
• No known allergy or intolerance to local anesthetic agents or cold atmospheric plasma (CAP);
• Presence of similar bilateral dental treatment indications in the maxilla or mandible.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding;
• Presence of active lesions, ulceration, or signs of infection in the mucosa at the injection site;
• Immunodeficiency or systemic immunosuppressive therapy;
• Use of anticoagulant medications;
• Previous exposure to CAP therapy for any purpose;
• History of allergy to local anesthetic agents;
• Presence of neurological or psychiatric disorders that may affect pain perception.