Understanding the Dental Numbing Shot: What to Expect at Your Next Appointment

If you’ve ever needed a cavity filled or another dental procedure, you’ve probably heard your dentist mention the dental numbing shot. While it sounds painful (who wants to get a shot?), it’s actually one of the most important parts of keeping you comfortable and pain-free during your visit. 

At Apple Tree Dental in Rexburg, our priority is you and your care. If you have concerns about dental numbing shots, our dental team is always available to answer any questions you may have. 

What Is the Numbing Shot at the Dentist?

A numbing shot for your teeth (also known as a numbing injection or dental shot) delivers a local anesthetic to the area of your mouth where treatment will occur. The shot is used to prevent pain while your dentist works. 

The most common medication in a numbing dental shot is lidocaine, which temporarily blocks the nerves that send pain signals to your brain. Lidocaine is one of several drugs used for local anesthesia in dentistry, and the choice of drug and dose is carefully reviewed based on the patient's medical history. Some numbing solutions may also include a small amount of epinephrine, which helps the anesthetic last longer by reducing blood flow in the area.

Before administering any anesthetic, the dentist will have reviewed your health information to ensure the safest and most effective treatment.

Do Dentists Use Gel Before the Shot?

If you’re nervous about needles, here’s some good news: most dentists use a dental numbing gel before injection. This gel is a form of topical anesthesia applied directly to your gum to gently numb the surface before the needle is used.

Without topical anesthesia, injections in the gum area can sometimes be more painful, so this step helps minimize discomfort.

What Happens During a Numbing Shot?

Your dentist will gently apply the numbing gel, wait one to two minutes for it to take effect, and then carefully inject the anesthetic using a very fine needle. You may experience a brief sensation of pressure or tingling at the injection site as the anesthetic is administered, but the process typically lasts only a few seconds. After that, the targeted area will become numb in just a few minutes. If you’re receiving a cavity-numbing shot, your dentist may test the area to ensure you’re fully numb before beginning treatment. 

How Long Does Numbing Last?

The effects of numbing at dentist appointments, specifically numbness, can last for several hours after the procedure, depending on the anesthetic used and the type of treatment. You’ll still be able to talk, but you may notice some temporary tingling or drooping sensations in your lips or cheeks. Numbness in the lips, cheeks, and other oral areas is normal. 

Some patients may experience mild swelling or soreness at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly. Any persistent discomfort or swelling should be reported to your dentist. These effects fade as the anesthetic wears off.

Choose Apple Tree Dental

At Apple Tree Dental, our team takes patient comfort seriously. Patient care is our top priority, and we are committed to ensuring your safety and well-being throughout your visit. If you are concerned about anesthesia or possible side effects, please discuss your worries with our dental team or your doctor so we can address them together.

Ready to experience gentle dental care in Rexburg? Schedule your visit today at Apple Tree Dental, and let our caring team make your next dental procedure smooth, comfortable, and worry-free.

‍