How To Get Rid of Numbness After the Dentist

You just finished a dental appointment where they had to use anesthesia. Maybe you needed a filling? Regardless of the reason, you’re ready to get on with your day and you’re wondering how to get rid of numbness after the dentist visit. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to speed along the process.

Read on to get tips on how to reduce how long your mouth is numb after a dentist appointment.

How Does Local Dental Anesthesia Work, Anyway?

Local dental anesthesia is designed to numb a specific area of your mouth, unlike general anesthesia, which induces sleep. This precision is achieved through the injection of an anesthetic solution directly near the targeted nerves, effectively blocking pain signals during dental procedures. This method ensures you remain comfortable and pain-free but fully conscious.

The anesthetic’s effects gradually diminish as your body’s blood flow transports it away from the injection site, where it’s then metabolized and eliminated naturally. This process allows the numbness to wear off on its own, typically requiring no downtime for recovery.

The safety and efficiency of local anesthesia make it a preferred choice for various dental treatments. It enables a swift return to daily activities post-procedure, offering a convenient solution with minimal disruption to your routine.

Tips on How to Get Rid of Numbness After the Dentist

There’s no way to make the numbness just “go away” but you can take some steps to minimize how long you have numbness after the dentist:

Move Your Jaw

Did you know something as simple as moving your jaw around can invite that much-needed blood flow back into the numb areas? It’s like telling the anesthesia, “Thanks for your help, but it’s time to move on!” Just a gentle reminder though – be mindful not to nibble on your cheek or tongue. It’s easy to forget they’re there when they feel like fluffy clouds!

Massage Your Face

Imagine giving your face a little love and attention with a gentle massage. It’s not just a treat; it’s a way to get the blood flowing beautifully again, helping to send off the numbness. You don’t need to be a massage therapist, just a soft touch on your cheeks and lips will do. Make it your little relaxation moment, perhaps while catching up on your favorite show.

Pump Up Your Heart Rate

Who would have thought that a bit of exercise could be the secret to overcoming dental numbness? Whether it’s a brisk walk, a cycle around the block, or an impromptu living room dance party, getting your heart rate up is like a wake-up call for your body to process the anesthesia faster. Plus, it’s a great mood booster!

Request a Reversing Injection

Here’s a little insider tip – some dental practices offer something called a reversing injection. It’s like the fast-forward button to reduce numbness, helping you feel more like yourself within the hour. It’s not a must-have, but it’s definitely a nice-to-have if you’re not keen on waiting. Just check with your dentist if it’s an option next time.

Relax and Give It Time

At the end of the day, remember that the numbness isn’t just a quirky side effect; it’s there to make your dental procedure as comfortable as possible. So, why not embrace it as a bit obligated relaxation? A nap, a quiet read, or simply daydreaming are all perfect post-dentist activities. It’s a good excuse to take a little time for yourself, and before you know it, normal sensation will return.

So next time you’re sitting there with a numb mouth, remember, it’s just temporary and manageable with a little effort and a lot of self-care.

Take It Easy When You’re Still Numb

The injection your dentists uses is safe, but you still need to take some care following your appointment to prevent issues. If you’re worried about how to get rid of numbness after the dentist then you may be trying to rush into feeling “normal” too fast.

Since you’re still a bit numb, you may not realize how much damage you’re doing until the numbness dissipates. You may also put uneven pressure on your teeth due to how unnatural it feels to bite with a partially numbed mouth. In either case, you could be setting yourself up for discomfort even after the numbness wears off.

Contact Walbridge Dental

Are you missing one or more teeth? We can help! The professionals at Walbridge Dental provide complete family dental care to families in the Millbury community. Contact us online to set up an appointment now or call us at 419-836-1033.

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