The length of time dental numbing lasts depends on the type used. For instance, Novocaine’s (a popular local anesthetic drug) numbing effects usually wear off after thirty to sixty minutes. However, many other factors influence how long the effects last.
When you take local anesthesia, its numbing effect on the tooth can last from one to two hours, and your lips and tongue can be affected for three to five hours.
The feeling of numbness gradually fades away as the blood flow carries it away from the injection site. Ask your dentist if you can go for a walk or get involved in any other trivial physical activity, as it can help reduce the numbing effects more quickly.
What are some different types of numbing agents?
The type of anesthetic used depends on the type of dental procedure or surgery. For example, a dental filling is a minor procedure requiring the use of local anesthesia only to a small area.
On the other hand, more extensive surgeries, such as dental implants, may require a higher dose of anesthesia. Below are the common numbing agents you may encounter at the dentist:
- Numbing gel: A numbing gel is an ointment that is used for a temporary numbing of an area. Although this numbing agent is not very strong and does not guarantee a painless procedure, what it can do is allow more powerful injections to be used without any pain or discomfort.
- Local anesthesia: Almost all restorative dentistry procedures, such as dental bonding or dentures, use local anesthesia. The two types include infiltration injection and block injection. An infiltration injection can immobilize some specific regions of the mouth. Block injection, on the other hand, can numb larger portions of the mouth.
- Conscious sedation: In this procedure, dentists use a sedative with anesthesia, which further reduces discomfort and anxiety for a patient.
How long does dental anesthesia take to wear off?
Anesthesia can have different effects on different patients. On average, local anesthesia can last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. If you begin to feel discomfort in the middle of treatment, notify your dentist immediately. This is because some people better tolerate anesthetics and may need a higher dosage. Although rare, some patients continue to feel anesthesia’s numbing effects for one or more days after dental treatment.
Side Effects of Anesthesia
Compared to general anesthesia, local anesthetics are incredibly safe and carry very few side effects. In some cases, it can numb unplanned regions, resulting in more than usual relaxation of mouth or eyelid. However, these effects should wear off along with the rest of the numbness.
We Value Your Comfort
Whether you’re having your tooth extracted or getting an implant, we can help you have a comfortable and anxiety-free dental experience. Contact Dynamic Dental Solutions at (281) 837-9090 to schedule an appointment.