During regular procedures your dentist may utilize an injection meant to numb a portion of your gum or inner cheek. This is referred to as local anesthesia and is most commonly performed using Lidocaine. While many people recognize Novocaine, it is no longer commonly used due to the duration of its effect as well as the likelihood of allergic reactions. Lidocaine makes up the majority of standard injections, however it is common for injections to include other drugs.

• Vasoconstrictors, used to narrow your blood vessels increasing the duration of numbness
• Chemicals that prevent the decomposition of the vasoconstrictor
• Sodium Hydroxide, helps the numbing agent produce the desired effect
• Sodium Chloride, speeds the dispersion of the numbing agent

Injections include Block Injections and Infiltraions Injections.

Block Injections

Numbs an entire region of your mouth, such as one side of your lower jaw.

Infiltration Injections

Numbs the area directly surrounding the point of injection.

An injection of local anesthesia can last up to several hours. After you leave the dentist’s office, you may find it difficult to speak clearly or eat effectively. Be careful not to bite down on the numb area as you could hurt yourself without realizing.

Side Effects

While side effects are extremely rare, some patients may experience the following

• Hematoma, blood filled swelling that can form when injection needle hits blood vessel
• Numbness outside the target area, dissipates as the numbing agent wears off
• Nerve injury, can lead to numbness or pain for extended periods of time