That numb sensation is what allows your dental work to be done with minimal sensation. After your appointment is over, you will naturally ask, “How long does numbness last after the dentist?” You can expect the feeling to wear off in a few hours for most procedures. We will explain the reasons for this and give you some helpful safety tips.
How Long Does Dental Numbness Usually Last
While every person is different, we can give you a general idea of the timing. The length of time you will feel numb mostly depends on the type of dental procedure you had.
- For simple procedures like a dental filling, you can expect the numbness to last between 1 to 3 hours.
- For more complex procedures like a root canal or tooth extraction, the numbness may last longer, typically between 3 to 5 hours.
What to Do While You Are Still Numb
While you are waiting for the feeling to come back, it is important to be careful. Your mouth, lips, and tongue are numb, so you can hurt them without realizing it. Here are a few important tips to stay safe.
Note: Read what you should do if you want to vape after a cleaning.
What Affects How Long the Numbing Sensation Lasts?
The feeling of dental numbing is not the same for everyone. Here are the main reasons why:
The Type of Dental Anesthetic Used
First, dentists use different kinds of numbing medicine depending on the procedure. For example, a common anesthetic called Lidocaine usually wears off in just a couple of hours. But for a longer procedure, your dentist might use a medicine designed to last longer.
The Type of Dental Procedure
Next, the type of dental work you have done makes a big difference. A simple filling, for instance, might mean the numbness is gone in 1 to 3 hours.
On the other hand, a more complex procedure like a root canal or preparing for a dental implant can mean the area stays numb for 3 to 5 hours, or even a bit longer. (These services are provided by a general dentist, not as a specialist.)
The Location of the Injection
Also, where you get the injection matters. An injection in your lower jaw usually lasts longer than one in your upper jaw. This is because the bone in your lower jaw is denser, so it takes more time for the numbing feeling to go away.
Your Own Metabolism
Finally, every person’s body is different. Some people have a faster metabolism, which means their bodies process the anesthetic more quickly. If that is you, you might find that the numbness wears off sooner than it does for other people.
When Should You Contact Your Dentist?
For any of these concerns, it is always best to contact us directly. Your safety is the most important thing.
Conclusion: The Numbness Will Wear Off
To sum up, feeling numb is a normal part of many dental procedures, from simple fillings to cosmetic work like a teeth whitening system. The feeling almost always wears off within a few hours.
Remember to be careful while you wait. The anesthetic was simply used to make your procedure more comfortable. So, how long does numbness last after the dentist? For most people, it is just a few hours. And now you know what can affect that time and how to stay safe.
