The experience of feeling shaky or jittery after a dental procedure is common. While people often refer to the numbing agent as “Novocaine,” modern dentists use other local anesthetics like lidocaine or articaine. These newer anesthetics frequently contain an additive that can contribute to the sensation of shakiness. Understanding these components can demystify this feeling. This article explores the reasons and offers insights into managing it.
The Role of Epinephrine in Local Anesthetics
Epinephrine, often known by its common name adrenaline, is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels, and this property is why it is frequently added to dental local anesthetics. The primary purpose of including epinephrine is to prolong the numbing effect of the anesthetic by keeping it localized to the injection site for a longer duration.
This constriction of blood vessels slows the absorption of the anesthetic into the bloodstream, which not only extends the period of numbness but also reduces the amount of anesthetic needed and minimizes bleeding in the area. While beneficial for the dental procedure, it is this added epinephrine, rather than the anesthetic itself, that is largely responsible for the shaky feeling some individuals experience. The amount of epinephrine used is small, but even tiny quantities can have an effect.
How Your Body Responds to Epinephrine
When even a small amount of epinephrine from the local anesthetic enters the bloodstream, it can trigger a series of physiological responses throughout the body. Epinephrine is a powerful stimulant for both the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. This stimulation can result in an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, mimicking the body’s natural “fight or flight” response.
These internal changes manifest externally as sensations like shakiness, jitters, or a feeling of nervousness and anxiety. Some individuals might also experience lightheadedness due to these systemic effects. The degree to which a person experiences these symptoms can vary significantly, depending on individual sensitivity to epinephrine and other factors.
Managing Post-Procedure Jitters
The shaky or jittery sensation experienced after a dental procedure is usually temporary and generally harmless, typically subsiding within minutes to an hour as the body metabolizes the epinephrine. To help manage these feelings, several simple coping mechanisms can be beneficial. Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm the nervous system, and engaging in a relaxing activity, like listening to music or reading, can distract from the sensation.
Staying hydrated by drinking water and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine can also aid in recovery. While these jitters are common, it is prudent to contact your dental professional if symptoms are severe, persist for an unusually long time, or are accompanied by other concerning reactions. Your dentist can provide further reassurance and guidance based on your individual health history.
The Role of Epinephrine in Local Anesthetics
Epinephrine, often known by its common name adrenaline, is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels, and this property is why it is frequently added to dental local anesthetics. The primary purpose of including epinephrine is to prolong the numbing effect of the anesthetic by keeping it localized to the injection site for a longer duration.
This constriction of blood vessels slows the absorption of the anesthetic into the bloodstream. This not only extends the period of numbness but also reduces the amount of anesthetic needed and minimizes bleeding in the area. While beneficial for the dental procedure, it is this added epinephrine, rather than the anesthetic itself, that is largely responsible for the shaky feeling some individuals experience. The amount of epinephrine used is small, but even tiny quantities can have an effect.
How Your Body Responds to Epinephrine
When even a small amount of epinephrine from the local anesthetic enters the bloodstream, it can trigger a series of physiological responses throughout the body. Epinephrine is a powerful stimulant for both the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. This stimulation can result in an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, mimicking the body’s natural “fight or flight” response.
These internal changes manifest externally as sensations like shakiness, jitters, or a feeling of nervousness and anxiety. Some individuals might also experience palpitations or lightheadedness due to these systemic effects. The degree to which a person experiences these symptoms can vary significantly, depending on individual sensitivity to epinephrine and other factors.
Managing Post-Procedure Jitters
The shaky or jittery sensation experienced after a dental procedure is usually temporary and generally harmless, typically subsiding within minutes to an hour as the body metabolizes the epinephrine. To help manage these feelings, several simple coping mechanisms can be beneficial. Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm the nervous system, and engaging in a relaxing activity, like listening to music or reading, can distract from the sensation.
Staying hydrated by drinking water and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine can also aid in recovery. While these jitters are common, it is prudent to contact your dental professional if symptoms are severe, persist for an unusually long time, or are accompanied by other concerning reactions. Your dentist can provide further reassurance and guidance based on your individual health history.