Dental numbing is a very common aspect of modern dentistry that ensures comfort and pain management during dental procedures. By using dental anaesthetics, dentists can perform treatments ranging from simple cavity fillings to more complex surgeries without causing discomfort to the patient. After the dental procedure, patients will typically experience dental numbness for 1 to 2 hours depending on the type of anaesthetic used.
What Are Dental Anaesthetics
Dental anaesthetics are medications used to numb specific areas of the mouth and gums, allowing dentists to perform procedures without causing pain to the patient. They are used during both emergency treatments and routine dental work.
Types of Dental Anaesthetics And How Long They Take to Wear Off
There are several types of local anaesthetics commonly used in dentistry, each chosen based on the type of dental procedure and the individual needs of the patient. The length of time of how long dental numbing lasts varies significantly based on the type of anaesthetic administered.
Here are the common;y used dental anaesthetics and how long they take to wear off:
- Lidocaine: The most commonly used dental anaesthetic, Lidocaine is known for its quick onset and effective numbing properties. It is suitable for procedures that require a deeper level of numbness over a moderate duration. Lidocaine typically causes numbness that lasts about 1 to 3 hours. For most standard procedures, patients can expect the sensation to start diminishing within this timeframe.
- Articaine: Often used in procedures where more profound numbness is required, articaine is known for its enhanced potency and ability to diffuse through tissues, making it ideal for more complex dental work. Articaine can prolong numbness slightly longer than Lidocaine, generally wearing off within 2 to 4 hours after administration.
- Mepivacaine: A preferred choice for shorter procedures as it provides a rapid onset of numbness with a relatively shorter duration, which can be beneficial for patients who prefer the numbness to wear off quickly post-procedure. Mepivacaine usually subsides within 1 to 2 hours.
- Prilocaine: Known for its mild formulation, prilocaine is often used for patients who may have specific health concerns that preclude the use of stronger anaesthetics. It is effective but generally lighter compared to lidocaine and articaine.
- Bupivacaine: Although less commonly used for routine dental work, bupivacaine is noted for its long-lasting effects and is sometimes chosen for procedures that might cause prolonged discomfort post-treatment. Bupivacaine’s numbness can last for up to 4 to 6 hours.
The listed average durations are approximate and can vary based on a number of factors.
Factors Influencing the Duration of Dental Numbing
Numbness after dental procedures can vary significantly from person to person and even from one procedure to another.
Factors influencing how long dental numbing lasts include:
- The type of anaesthetic used
- The amount of anaesthetic administered and the
- The technique used to inject it
- The area in the body where it was administered
- The person’s metabolism
- How a person’s tissues absorb and react to the anaesthetic
Managing the Effects of Dental Numbing
After dental anaesthetic, the numbness can be disconcerting to some people, especially if it affects their ability to speak clearly or consume beverages and food.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
Immediately after your dental procedure, while you’re still experiencing numbness, take these precautions to prevent injury and ensure a smooth recovery:
- Avoid Eating Hard or Hot Foods: While numb, you might not be able to feel the temperature or texture of foods properly, which can lead to burns or accidental bites on the inside of your cheek or tongue.
- Chew on the Opposite Side: If only one side of your mouth is numb, use the other side for chewing to reduce the risk of biting your numb cheek or tongue.
- Avoid Sucking Actions: Activities like using a straw or smoking can interfere with the healing process, especially if you’ve had an extraction or surgery.
- Be Careful with Hot Beverages: Just like with foods, the inability to gauge temperature can lead to burns, so it’s best to avoid hot drinks until the numbness wears off.
- Don’t Touch or Poke the Numb Area: It might be tempting to feel the numb area, but doing so can cause damage without your realising it.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While numbness is a normal aftermath of dental anaesthesia, you should contact your dentist if you experience any of the following side effects:
- If the numbness lasts significantly longer than the typical duration expected for the anaesthetic used, it’s important to contact your dentist.
- If you experience any swelling, excessive pain, or discharge around the treated area, these can be signs of an infection.
- Any unusual reactions, such as rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties, should be addressed immediately as they could indicate an allergic reaction.
- If in doubt at any time, making a call to your dental office is the best course of action.
Concerned About Dental Anaesthesia?
If you have upcoming dental procedures, or if you have any concerns about dental anaesthesia and its effects, we encourage you to reach out to us at Dentistry on Coolum. Our friendly team is here to ensure that your dental care experience is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Schedule your consultation today to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about dental numbing or any other aspects of your dental health. Let us help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
