If you have developed a small cavity, chip, or crack in the tooth, a dental filling can restore it quickly and effectively. However, after the treatment, you might notice that your mouth feels numb. This happens because of the local anesthesia and is considered normal.
In this blog, we will talk about how long the numbness usually lasts and what you can do while you wait for the numbness to go away.
What Causes Numbness After Filling?
A dental filling procedure can be minimally invasive, which is why your dentist will use anesthesia to minimize pain and discomfort. They may use a combination of a topical anesthetic gel to numb the surface, followed by a local anesthetic injection to block pain.
The numb feeling after a dental filling is caused by the local anesthetic injected into the treatment area. This ensures that you stay comfortable during your treatment. Once the anesthesia starts to wear off, normal sensation gradually returns to your lips, cheeks, and tongue.
Typical Duration of Numbness After Filling
In most cases, numbness lasts between 1 and 3 hours after a dental filling. However, in some cases, numbness might last up to 4 to 5 hours if a stronger or long-lasting anesthetic was used.
However, several factors can affect how long it takes to wear off, including:
- The type and amount of anesthetic used
- Where the injection was given
- Your body’s metabolism and how quickly it processes the anesthetic
What to Do While You’re Still Numb
While your mouth is numb, it is important to stay cautious. It is easy to accidentally bite your lips, cheeks, or tongue without realizing it. During this time, dentists recommend:
- Avoid eating hot food or drinks until the numbness wears off
- If you must eat, chew on the opposite side of your mouth
- Skip crunchy or hard foods until you can fully feel your mouth again
Is Pain After Numbness Normal?
Yes – once the numbness wears off, you may notice mild pain or sensitivity, especially if the cavity was deep or close to the nerve. This is normal and usually subsides in a few days.
How To Manage Pain After Filling?
Here is how you can manage pain after getting a dental filling:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist
- Avoid extreme temperatures in foods or drinks to prevent sensitivity
- Eat soft foods for a day or two, until you feel better
When to Contact Your Dentist
Any numbness that lasts longer than 4 to 5 hours is not considered normal and must be checked by a dentist. Severe, sharp pain, persistent sensitivity, swelling, tender gums, inflammation, and other signs of infection, like fever, are all red flags. If you suspect any of these, see your dentist right away!
Final Thoughts
After a dental filling procedure, your lips, cheeks, and tongue might feel numb, and that is completely normal. This numbness is caused by anesthesia used to prevent pain and discomfort. It should go away within 1 to 3 hours. Any numbness that stays for 4 to 5 hours or longer should be checked.
If you suspect that numbness hasn’t completely gone within its recommended hours or feel extreme pain, sensitivity, or swelling after consult specialists at Smile 360 Family Dentistry of Rancho Cucamonga for diagnosis and care. Call us at (909) 980-4878 to book your appointment.