Experiencing numbness after a dental procedure is a common sensation. This temporary loss of feeling is a normal part of modern dental care, designed to ensure comfort during treatments. While inconvenient, understanding why it happens and what to expect can help manage the experience.
Understanding Dental Numbness
Dental numbness occurs due to local anesthetics, used by dentists to prevent pain during procedures. These medications temporarily block nerve signals in the treated area. Local anesthetics, like lidocaine, interfere with sodium channels in nerve cells, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain.
Their effects are temporary, with sensation returning once the medication wears off. The duration of numbness can vary based on the type and amount of anesthetic used, the injection site, and an individual’s metabolism. For instance, lower jaw nerve blocks may affect a larger area, including the lip, tongue, and chin, and can last longer due to bone structure.
Practical Steps to Lessen Numbness
While numbness naturally dissipates, some actions can encourage sensation to return. Light physical activity, such as a short walk, can increase blood circulation. This enhanced blood flow helps the body metabolize and clear the anesthetic faster. Gentle jaw movements, like slow circular motions, can also stimulate oral circulation.
Applying warmth to the affected area can promote blood flow. A warm compress on the cheek can help disperse the anesthetic. Drinking warm liquids, such as tea, can stimulate circulation, but ensure they are not too hot to avoid burns. Gently massaging the lips, cheeks, and jaw can further stimulate blood flow and help reduce the numb sensation.
Staying hydrated by drinking water can also support the body’s process of clearing the anesthetic. While these methods can be helpful, patience is important as the body naturally breaks down the medication. Some dental practices may also offer reversal medications that can significantly speed up the return of sensation, though these may incur an additional cost.
Important Safety While Numb
While numb, it is important to take precautions to prevent accidental mouth injury. Since sensation is diminished, you might not feel if you bite your cheek, tongue, or lip, leading to tissue damage. Refrain from eating until the numbness has completely worn off to avoid inadvertently biting soft tissues.
Drinking hot beverages is unsafe while numb, as the lack of sensation can prevent you from realizing the liquid is too hot, potentially causing burns. Similarly, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the anesthetic was administered. Children should be closely monitored as they may not understand the effects of numbness and might chew, scratch, or suck on their numb lip, tongue, or cheek, leading to irritation or injury.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While dental numbness is temporary and resolves within a few hours, certain situations warrant contacting your dentist. If the numbness persists significantly longer than expected (e.g., beyond 4-6 hours), it could indicate a complication. This is especially relevant if it lasts for more than 12 hours or a day or two.
Other concerning symptoms that necessitate a call include severe pain, swelling, tingling, or a loss of taste accompanying the numbness. Difficulty moving your face normally or signs of an allergic reaction or infection in the treated area also require prompt professional attention. Early communication with your dentist can help address any potential issues and ensure a smooth recovery.