16
Jul
Local Dental Anesthesia: When Is It Used?
Dentists have been using local anesthesia safely and effectively for over 100 years. Local anesthesia plays a major role in preventing pain so you can have comfortable, pain-free treatments. At Grand Dental Arts in Toms River, New Jersey, you can trust Dr. Colleen Williamson and Dr. Marya Ijaz to apply local anesthesia safely and effectively for your dental procedures. These FAQs offer greater insight into the use of local anesthesia in dentistry.
What is local anesthesia?
Local dental anesthesia is medicine injected into your mouth to prevent pain during invasive dental treatments. Drs. Williamson and Ijaz may use a local anesthetic for procedures like dental fillings, crowns, deep cleaning for gum disease, tooth extractions, implants, or emergency dental treatment. The anesthetic will keep you from feeling pain, so you will have more comfortable procedures.
Is dental anesthesia safe?
Yes! When administered by an experienced dentist, local anesthesia is a safe means of providing painless treatments. You’ll be awake during your procedure but won’t feel a thing. Your Toms River, NJ, dentist can tailor local anesthesia to your specific needs to minimize risks. Local anesthesia has been known to cause temporary side effects of headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, and muscle twitching, but these generally subside fairly quickly.
Can local anesthesia be combined with sedation?
Absolutely! The combination of local anesthesia with sedation allows you to benefit from painless and anxiety-free dental procedures.
How long does a local anesthetic last?
Dental anesthetics tend to work quickly, usually within five to 10 minutes, although it varies depending on the type of anesthetic used. Once administered to your mouth, the numbing effects can last several hours. The duration of the anesthetic can vary from one person to the next. The dosage given will also impact how long the anesthetic will last.
What should I not do while my mouth is numb?
Wait until the anesthesia has fully worn off before eating to avoid damaging the soft tissues in your mouth. Avoid drinking hot beverages like coffee or tea, as you can’t tell if it’s too hot when your mouth is numb. Don’t chew on your inner cheeks or lips, as you can’t feel if you’re hurting yourself or not.
What are the advantages of dental anesthesia?
Fear of pain can keep people far from the dental chair. Through the use of dental anesthesia, you’re assured of painless dental treatment. Knowing your procedure won’t cause pain can help relieve any anxiety and stress you may feel about undergoing invasive treatments like root canals, tooth extractions, or implants. Local anesthesia can help you feel more comfortable in the dental chair, making it easier for your dentist to work with greater efficiency. Using anesthesia contributes to more positive dental experiences and successful outcomes from your treatments.
Who offers painless and anxiety-free dental procedures near me?
Grand Dental Arts is your one-stop shop for painless dental care in Toms River, NJ. Contact Dr. Colleen Williamson or Dr. Marya Ijaz at 732-286-7000 to schedule an appointment.