Have you ever had a tooth pulled, a cavity filled, or any other dental procedure? Imagine going through it without any anesthetic or numbing. You’d feel every sensation. Using a local anesthetic helps prevent discomfort and pain, but many wonder, “How long does numbing last?”
Generally, numbing can last anywhere from 1 to 5 hours. However, this duration depends on factors such as the type of anesthetic used, the amount administered, the specific procedure performed, and how quickly your body processes and metabolizes the agent.
Why Do Dentists Numb Your Mouth?
Dentists often use a local anesthetic to numb your mouth for a pain-free and comfortable experience during dental procedures. It lets them perform treatments like fillings, extractions, or root canals without causing you discomfort or distress.
A few numbing agents are available, but the most common is Novocaine. Novocaine is a brand of procaine and is injected next to a cluster of nerves to block them from sending pain signals to your brain. Dentists use it to numb the area they are working on so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
Since there are few side effects to local anesthesia, it’s safe for nearly everyone.
How Long Does the Numbing Last?
Usually, numbing will wear off after 1–4 hours, though it may last longer for some. This period can vary depending on factors like:
- The type of anesthetic used
- The amount of drug administered
- The location in your mouth where the anesthetic is injected
And there’s another important factor: your body’s ability to metabolize the anesthetic. Everyone’s body processes substances at different rates, so what might wear off quickly for one person can take longer for another.
So, while the average duration of numbness from Novocaine is a couple of hours, remember that your experience might differ.
Do Dentists Always Numb Your Mouth?
While many dental procedures involve local anesthetics, not all do. Routine cleanings, check-ups, and minor procedures don’t require numbing your mouth.
However, some procedures require more advanced, deep, and detailed work. These include:
- Root canals
- Tooth extractions
- Dental implants
- Gum disease treatments
- Dental crown placement
- Wisdom tooth removal
Generally, drilling, extracting, or altering the tooth structure requires some anesthetic. These agents help ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure and make the experience more manageable.
Can You Make Dental Numbing Go Away?
While you’re likely happy not to feel discomfort during your dental procedure, you probably want the numbing to go away as quickly as possible afterwards. While there’s no magic trick to make it disappear instantly, you can do some things to help it wear off naturally as your body metabolizes it:
- Stay hydrated
- Go for a gentle walk to increase blood flow
- Apply a warm compress to the affected area
- Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can slow down your metabolism
- Get some rest, as the body metabolizes substances more effectively when relaxed
But, be patient. Let your body work at its own pace and heal.
Avoid inflammation and harming the treated area, which you may not initially feel because it’s numbed. Do this by not:
- Drinking hot drinks and eating hot food
- Rubbing the area
- Drinking alcohol
- Using tobacco
- Performing strenuous physical activity
Once the numbing agent wears off, these activities could cause pain, inflammation, discomfort, or even severe damage to the area just operated on.
You should also avoid driving if you’re still numb when you leave. You’ll probably be distracted by the sensations in your face, and your reaction times might be delayed. Instead, get a lift from a friend or family member or take a taxi.
If the numbness lasts longer than expected, contact your dentist. Though it should wear off after a few hours, there are some situations where it may take a little longer.
Talk to Your Dentist
Call us if you have concerns about dental numbness or any other aspect of your dental procedure. At Arch King West Dental, we’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide expert, compassionate care.
We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile, so book an appointment with us today!
