How long does an anesthetic at the dentist last?
Dental anesthesia is one of the most valuable tools for ensuring pain-free treatment. Whether it’s to treat a cavity, perform an extraction or carry out endodontic treatment, it allows the patient to experience the procedure with complete peace of mind. But one question often comes up before or just after the consultation: how long does anesthesia at the dentist’s last? At iDental Studio, your dentist in Geneva, we explain everything simply and reassuringly.
Duration varies according to type of anesthesia
In dentistry, local anesthesia is the most frequently used. It works by temporarily blocking pain transmission in a targeted area of the mouth (tooth, gum or jaw). Its effect generally begins a few minutes after injection and can last between 1 and 3 hours, depending on several factors :
- the area treated (lower molars, for example, often require a deeper anesthetic),
- the quantity of product injected
- patient sensitivity,
- the presence of a vasoconstrictor in the product, which prolongs the anesthetic effect.
It is also common for the sensation of numbness (in the cheek, tongue or lips) to last slightly longer than the absence of pain itself. This sensation can last up to 4 or 5 hours, but disappears naturally, without intervention.
What to do during and after anesthesia?
During anesthesia, you feel no pain or temperature in the treated area. That’s why it’s important not to accidentally bite the inside of your cheek or tongue. After the procedure, it’s advisable not to eat until the anesthetic has worn off completely, to avoid any unintentional injury.
If the anaesthetic lasts a little longer than expected, there is generally no cause for concern. However, in the event of unusual persistence (more than 6 hours), don’t hesitate to contact our team.
Total mastery of anesthesia at iDental Studio
At iDental Studio, we use modern techniques and the latest anesthetic products. Whether you come for conservative care, gum treatment or a more technical procedure such as endodontic treatment, we always adapt the dosage and technique to your situation to ensure maximum comfort and safety.
Our practitioners also take the time to explain each step to the patient, especially children, thanks to our expertise in pediatric dentistry. This helps to build trust and reduce anesthesia-related anxiety.
Conclusion
On average, the effect of dental anesthesia lasts between 1 and 3 hours, but the numbing sensation may last a little longer. At iDental Studio, your dentist in Carouge, 5 minutes from Geneva, we make sure that every anaesthetic is perfectly adapted, effective and comfortable. Do you have a question or concern? Don’t hesitate to talk to us – we’re here to support you in complete confidence.