It is common to leave the dentist with a numb mouth, an unsettling and inconvenient sensation. While essential for comfortable, pain-free dental procedures, many people are eager for the sensation to subside so they can return to normal activities. Understanding dental anesthesia and adopting simple strategies can help manage this post-procedure phase.
Understanding Dental Anesthesia
Dental anesthesia, typically a local anesthetic, works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in a specific area of the mouth, preventing pain messages from reaching the brain. This allows dentists to perform procedures like fillings, root canals, or extractions without causing discomfort. Common local anesthetics include lidocaine, articaine, and mepivacaine.
The duration of the numbing effect varies depending on several factors, including the type and amount of anesthetic used, the injection site, and an individual’s metabolism. For instance, lidocaine commonly provides numbness for about one to three hours, while articaine may last slightly longer, two to four hours. Some longer-acting anesthetics like bupivacaine can extend the numbing effect for up to eight hours.
Strategies to Accelerate Numbness Dissipation
While numbness naturally wears off, certain actions may encourage faster dissipation. Increasing blood flow to the affected area can assist the body in metabolizing the anesthetic more quickly. Gentle physical activity, such as a brisk walk or light exercise, can promote overall circulation, helping carry the anesthetic away from the injection site.
Gentle massage of the cheeks, lips, or jaw can also stimulate blood flow. Use circular motions with clean hands, but avoid pressing too hard or directly touching the injection site to prevent irritation. Applying a warm compress to the external area of the face can also help dilate blood vessels and increase circulation, potentially speeding up the process.
Moving your mouth and facial muscles gently, like wiggling your jaw or tongue, can encourage blood flow and nerve stimulation. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate circulation in the mouth. Staying well-hydrated also aids in the elimination of medications.
Managing Post-Numbness Discomfort and Precautions
While the mouth is still numb, it is important to take precautions to prevent accidental injury. The lack of sensation means you might not feel if you are biting your cheek, lip, or tongue. Therefore, avoid eating or drinking anything until the numbness has completely worn off.
If you must drink, using a straw can help prevent spills and accidental burning from hot liquids, as you may not be able to accurately gauge temperature. As the numbness begins to fade, you may experience common sensations such as tingling or a “pins and needles” feeling, which indicates that sensation is returning. Minor tenderness at the injection site is also normal and resolves quickly.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Most dental numbing experiences are temporary and resolve without complications. However, there are specific situations where it is appropriate to contact your dentist. If numbness persists for an unusually long time, beyond four to eight hours or the expected duration advised by your dentist, it warrants a call.
Unexpected pain, swelling that worsens instead of improves, or any signs of infection like fever or pus should also prompt immediate communication with your dental office. These symptoms could indicate a complication that requires professional evaluation and care to ensure proper healing and prevent further issues.