Final answer:
The maximum local anesthetic dosage for articaine without epinephrine is 7 mg/kg of body weight, with a maximum limit of 500 mg per appointment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The absolute maximum recommended local anesthetic dosage for articaine without epinephrine is 7 mg/kg of body weight, but not to exceed 500 mg per appointment. This means that for a patient of a certain weight, the maximum allowable dosage should be calculated based on the 7 mg/kg guideline, ensuring it does not exceed 500 mg in any single appointment. In dental practice, articaine is often used with a vasoconstrictor such as epinephrine to prolong its effect, limit systemic absorption, and reduce bleeding in the area of the procedure. Without epinephrine, the dosage typically is reduced to minimize the potential for systemic toxicity.