When it comes to visiting the dentist, one of the biggest concerns for many people in Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas is, “Will it hurt?” At Boss Dental Care, we understand that dental anxiety is real, and we’re committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible. Local anesthetic is a key component of many procedures as it helps ensure that you feel little to no discomfort while getting the care your smile needs.
What Is Local Anesthetic?
Local anesthetic is a medication used to temporarily numb a specific area of the mouth, preventing pain while your dentist works. Unlike general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, local anesthetic allows you to stay fully awake and aware while ensuring you don’t feel pain during the procedure. We commonly use local anesthetic for procedures like fillings, root canals, tooth extractions, and periodontal treatments. If you’re getting a deep cleaning or even a crown placement, a little numbing can go a long way in making the process easier.
How Does It Work?
Local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, work by blocking nerve signals in the targeted area. When injected near a tooth or gum tissue, they prevent pain signals from reaching your brain, keeping you comfortable throughout the procedure. For most patients, the numbing effect kicks in within minutes and can last anywhere from one to several hours, depending on the type of anesthetic used.
What to Expect During and After Your Procedure
When you arrive for your treatment, our team will apply a topical anesthetic to the injection site before administering the local anesthetic. This helps minimize any sensation from the injection itself. You might feel a slight pinch or pressure, but it’s typically quick and manageable.
Once the area is numb, we’ll begin the procedure, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout. Afterward, the numbness will gradually wear off—usually within a few hours. During this time, you may experience:
Temporary numbness in your lips, tongue, or cheeks
A tingling sensation as the anesthetic wears off
A slight difficulty in speaking or eating until full sensation returns
It’s important to be mindful of your numb mouth to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue while eating or drinking. If you experience prolonged numbness or discomfort, let us know—we’re always here to help.
Your Comfort Comes First
At Boss Dental Care, we take pride in providing a relaxed, stress-free dental experience for our patients in Corpus Christi and the surrounding communities. Whether you’re coming in for a routine filling or a more involved procedure, our team is here to ensure you feel at ease from start to finish.
If you have any questions about local anesthetic or need to schedule a dental appointment, contact Boss Dental Care and let’s make your next visit a comfortable one. Visit our office in Corpus Christi, Texas, or call (361) 245-5400 today.
