Pain control of the entire primary dentition can be achieved with approximately two cartridges of local anesthetic. What is the most recommended drug in this case?

Using 2% lidocaine with epinephrine is the most recommended choice for effective pain control during dental procedures involving the primary dentition. Lidocaine is a widely used local anesthetic with a well-established safety profile and effectiveness. When combined with epinephrine, which is a vasoconstrictor, it helps to prolong the duration of anesthesia and reduce bleeding in the surgical area. This combination is particularly beneficial when working with children, as it provides adequate pain control while minimizing the potential for systemic absorption of the anesthetic.

Lidocaine has an appropriate balance of onset and duration of action, making it suitable for various dental interventions in pediatric patients. Moreover, the dosage allows for sufficient anesthetic effect in the entire primary dentition without exceeding recommended limits.

The other anesthetics listed may not provide the same level of effectiveness or safety for this particular patient demographic. While alternatives like articaine or mepivacaine may also be effective, lidocaine's long history of use and favorable profile make it the drug of choice in this instance.