Abstract: A self-shielding aspirating dental syringe includes a body having proximal and distal ends and a cavity therein for receiving a medicine cartridge. The distal end has a double-ended needle attached thereto, and the proximal end has a opening for inserting the cartridge into the cavity, and to which a plunger assembly may be attached. A shield is slidable on the body between retracted and extended positions for uncovering and covering the needle, respectively. Cooperating detents and detent pockets are molded on the shield and body for securing the shield in the extended position. A lever is molded on the shield that is pivotable for directing the detents radially outwardly to disengage the detents from the distal detent pockets and allow retraction of the shield from the extended position. A latch is molded on the shield for locking the lever and preventing subsequent retraction of the shield from the extended position.