So, you just had a filling. Now you’re sitting there with that familiar numb feeling in your mouth. That numbness is a normal side effect of the local anesthetic your dentist used to make sure you didn’t feel any pain during the procedure.
But how long does the numbness last after a filling? What should you avoid while you’re numb? And when should you worry? This article will give you the answers you need and hopefully reassure you that this temporary effect is perfectly normal.
How long does numbness hang around after a filling?
After you’ve had a cavity filled, you can expect the numbness in your mouth to last for a few hours.
Typical duration of numbness
The numbness usually wears off within 1 to 3 hours, although some people report it lasting as long as 5 hours.
Exactly how long the numbness lasts varies from person to person.
Factors influencing numbness duration
Several factors can affect how long you stay numb after a dental filling, including:
- The type and amount of anesthetic you received: Different anesthetics last for different lengths of time.
- The location of the injection: Anesthesia in the lower jaw tends to take longer to wear off.
- Your individual metabolism and how you respond to the anesthetic: Some people simply metabolize drugs more quickly than others.
What to avoid while your mouth is numb
While you’re waiting for the numbness to wear off, it’s important to take precautions to avoid injury.
- Don’t chew on the numb side. You might accidentally bite your cheek or tongue, and you won’t feel it until later.
- Skip hot foods and drinks. You could burn yourself because you won’t be able to accurately judge the temperature.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods. These can be difficult to manage and could lead to you biting yourself.
- Drink beverages at room temperature.
How to make the numbness go away faster
While you can’t instantly reverse the effects of the anesthetic, you can try to speed up the process:
- Move your face, jaw, and neck. Gentle movements increase blood flow, which may help your body process and eliminate the anesthetic more quickly.
- Rinse with warm water. Like movement, warmth can boost circulation.
- Apply a warm compress. A warm compress on your cheek can have the same effect as a warm water rinse.
Prolonged Numbness After Dental Work
Most people are back to normal within a few hours after a filling, but every so often, the numbness sticks around for longer than expected.
What’s considered prolonged numbness?
If you’re still numb five or six hours after your appointment, that’s considered prolonged numbness.
What could be causing it?
In rare cases, the injection can injure a nerve. It’s also possible, though uncommon, to have an allergic reaction to the anesthetic.
What should I do if the numbness won’t go away?
Call your dentist right away. Nerve injuries may need to be monitored and treated. An allergic reaction may require immediate medical treatment.
It’s worth noting that temporary numbness is a common and usually harmless side effect of dental work. But when in doubt, it’s always best to check with your dentist.
When to seek help
Although rare, some people have adverse reactions to local anesthetics. Call your dentist or seek emergency care immediately if you experience:
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- A rash or hives
- A racing heart
- Dizziness or fainting
Putting It All Together
The good news is that the numbness you feel after a dental filling is temporary. It’s usually a short-lived side effect of the local anesthetic.
Just remember not to chew until the feeling returns to normal. Choose soft foods and drinks, and be aware of the signs that you need to contact your dentist.
If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They’re there to help!