How Long Does Dental Numbing Last After a Visit?

How long does dental numbing last?

It depends. Cleveland Clinic says local anesthetics can last from 30 minutes to 12 hours or more. That is a wide range. The length depends on the area treated, the dose, the type of anesthetic, and whether additives such as epinephrine are in the mix.

Your dentist can tell you what to expect for your visit. Cleveland Clinic notes that your provider will let you know when to expect the anesthetic to wear off. Ask at the end of the visit, and write down the time you got the shot. That gives you a clear starting point.

What does the numbing do?

A local anesthetic blocks pain and sensory signals in one small area. Cleveland Clinic says local anesthetics work by temporarily blocking your peripheral nerves from sending those signals to your brain. You stay awake. You may feel pressure, but you should not feel pain in the numb area.

Many dental visits start with a gel on the gum. Cleveland Clinic says a dentist may apply a local anesthetic gel to numb the surface of the gums before giving an injection that numbs nerves deeper in the gums. Read about the topical anesthetic step to see why this comes first. The shot is what brings dental numbness to the tooth and the tissue around it.

What changes how long it lasts?

Cleveland Clinic lists the area, dose, type, and additives as the main factors. We do not give your numbers here. Only your dentist knows which medicine was used and how much.

Can I eat or drink while numb?

You can, but it is wise to wait. Cleveland Clinic says you can technically eat or drink what you want right after a filling, and it will not damage the new filling. But waiting until the numbness wears off can keep you from accidentally biting the inside of your cheeks. If you do eat right away, chew slowly and be mindful.

Mayo Clinic gives the same kind of advice after tooth removal. Be careful with hot and cold liquids and with biting your cheek until the numbness wears off. If your lip, cheek, or tongue is numb, you may not feel heat or a bite.

Here is a simple plan:

1. Ask your dentist whether it is fine to eat soon after your treatment.
2. If you eat, pick soft food. After tooth removal, Mayo Clinic advises soft foods such as yogurt or applesauce for the first day.
3. Skip hot coffee and soup until you can feel your lips and tongue.
4. Check your cheek and lip in a mirror if you think you bit them, and tell your dentist if the area looks injured.

What should I ask before I leave the office?

A few short questions can save you worry later.

• About how long will my lip and tongue stay numb?
• Is it fine to eat or drink now, or should I wait?
• What can I take for soreness once the numbness fades?
• Whom do I call if something feels wrong, and when is the office open?

The Town Center Dental office is closed Friday through Sunday. If your visit is late in the week, ask the team what to do if a question comes up before Monday.

When should I call about numbness that will not go away?

Call your dentist if the numbness lasts longer than you were told to expect. Cleveland Clinic says to contact your provider if numbness or muscle weakness lasts longer than expected. It also lists persistent numbness, weakness, or a pins and needles sensation among possible side effects of local anesthesia, and says these side effects are rare and usually minor.

Be specific when you call. Say which part of your face feels numb, when the visit was, and whether the feeling is changing. Do not wait for weeks to mention it. Each of these details helps your dentist decide what to do.

Can I drive or go back to work?

In most cases, yes. Cleveland Clinic says you should be able to drive after local anesthesia, such as for a dental procedure. It also says your provider will give you specific instructions for recovery, and you should follow them. Our dentists will talk with you about what applies to your visit. Plan for a lighter day if you are nervous or tired after the visit.

What if numbing worries me?

Some people tense up at the thought of a shot. That is common, and you can say so. Tell the team about past problems with anesthetics, a fear of needles, or allergies. Cleveland Clinic advises you to let your provider know about any allergies, past issues with anesthetics, and a fear of needles.

For more help with nerves, see our page on dental anxiety management. To learn what a filling visit is like from start to end, see dental fillings and our guide on what to expect at a dental visit. Our post on whether crowns hurt covers a longer visit.

Next step

Read about dental fillings at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment with your questions about numbing before your visit.