Local anaesthetic is what makes modern dentistry comfortable. It blocks nerve signals from a specific area of the mouth so you feel pressure and movement but not pain, while you remain completely awake and in control.
How it is given
A topical numbing gel is usually applied to the gum first so the injection itself is barely noticeable. The anaesthetic is then delivered either as an infiltration, which numbs a small area near a single tooth and is typical in the upper jaw, or as a nerve block, which numbs a whole region including the lip and tongue and is more common in the lower jaw.
Onset takes a few minutes. Your dentist at Parkway Dental will always confirm the area is properly numb before beginning — tell us if you feel anything sharp, as more can be given.
Afterwards
Numbness typically lasts one to three hours, and longer with a nerve block. During that time be careful not to bite your lip, cheek or tongue, and avoid hot drinks, since you will not feel a burn. This is especially important with children, who may chew a numb lip out of curiosity.
Some patients notice their heart beating faster briefly after an injection; this usually relates to adrenaline in the anaesthetic solution and passes quickly. Tell us about any previous reaction to dental anaesthetic, and about all medications and medical conditions, as these can influence which solution we choose.
Adding sedation
For patients who are anxious, have a strong gag reflex, or are facing longer treatment, sedation can be combined with local anaesthetic. Nitrous oxide — inhaled through a small nose mask — produces relaxation within minutes and wears off almost entirely within about fifteen minutes of stopping, so you can usually drive yourself home.
Oral sedation uses a tablet taken before the appointment; it produces deeper relaxation but requires an escort to bring you and take you home, and you must not drive for the rest of the day.
Sedation reduces anxiety; it does not replace local anaesthetic, which is still used to eliminate pain.