It’s not uncommon to feel uneasy at the dentist’s office. The thought of getting a root canal, drilling or tooth extraction done is unpleasant, which is why the dentist numbs your mouth for those procedures. Numbing agents makes dental procedures tolerable, but the numbing sensation you feel can last for hours after you leave. Next time you have your mouth numbed, here are a few things you should keep in mind:
How Long Does the Numbness Last?
The effects of the local anesthetic used to numb your mouth will last for several hours. It’s likely that your mouth will remain numb for some time after the procedure has been completed. A numb tongue or lip might leave you with a lisp for a few hours, but this is completely normal. And while it’s unlikely to happen, if your mouth is still numb days after the procedure, contact your dentist. It is possible that a nerve was damaged if the local anesthetic was injected into a different part of your mouth and should be addressed right away. Seeking immediate medical help should solve your problem.
What to Eat When Your Mouth Is Numb
Certain foods can help or hinder numbness. It is recommended that you don’t eat or drink while your mouth is still numb. Once it wears off you should stick to a diet of liquids and soft foods for at least 24 hours and make sure to avoid coffee and alcoholic drinks. Here are a few foods that you can eat once the numbness wears off:
- Jello
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Eggs
- Pancakes
- Ice Cream
- Milkshakes
Possible Irritation
Your mouth can be numbed for many different procedures, like having a root canal, tooth drilling or tooth extraction. After a serious procedure, be sure to avoid biting your lip, tongue or the inside of your cheek. This could be potentially dangerous because with your mouth still numb, you could hurt the still sensitive area of operation without realizing it. If you do hurt the area of your mouth, contact your dentist right away.
Trust the Professionals at Daxon Dentistry
The dentists at Daxon Dentistry recommend that you have someone drive you to and from any procedure that requires numbing. Besides caring for your teeth, it’s also the dentist’s job to make you as comfortable as possible before, during and after the procedure. Consult with us if you have any questions about numbing. Daxon Dentistry will work to make sure your experience with numbing goes as smoothly as possible. Give us a call today or come in and see us!