How Long Does It Take for the Numbness to Go Away After a Filling?

So, you’ve just had a dental filling. The process went well, and the decay from the tooth has been removed successfully. But now you’re probably thinking, “How long does it take for the numbness to go away after a filling?” 

We get it. Nobody wants to sit around with a numb mouth. That’s why our dental staff here at Marconi Dental Group wrote this blog about numbness after a filling. So, let’s talk a bit about everything you need to know about that lingering numbness and what you can expect.

Understanding That Pesky Numbness

First things first, let’s get into why you feel numb after getting a filling. When we fix you up with a filling, we use local anesthesia to numb the area around your tooth. This is to make sure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. But you might be asking, “How long does local anesthesia last?” Well, it depends on a few different factors, which we’ll dive into below.

How Long Does Numbness Hang Around After a Filling?

Typically, the numbness from a filling can last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. But, sometimes it can stick around a bit longer, like up to 5 hours. 

It all hinges on the type and amount of anesthesia used, as well as your body’s unique response to it. So, if you’re sitting there wondering, “How long does numbness last after a filling?” just know that it can vary from one person to the next.

Factors That Play a Role in Numbness Duration

Several factors can influence how long you stay numb after a filling:

• Type of Anesthesia: Different types of local anesthesia have varying durations. Some keep you numb longer than others.
• Quantity Used: The more anesthesia applied, the longer the numbness.
• Location Treated: Numbness in areas like your lower jaw can last longer than in other places.
• Personal Response: Everyone’s body metabolizes anesthesia differently. Some people just stay numb longer.

Prolonged Numbness After Dental Work

Now, what if that numbness lingers longer than you expected? Prolonged numbness after dental work can happen, but it’s usually not a reason to panic. If it’s been over 5 hours and you’re still feeling numb, give us a ring just to be safe. We can provide guidance and make sure everything is A-OK.

Dealing With the Numbness

Alright, so you’re dealing with that annoying numbness. Here are a few tips to make the experience more comfortable:

• Skip Hot Drinks and Foods: You don’t want to accidentally bite your cheek or burn yourself.
• Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods: Wait until the numbness wears off before tackling those.
• Chew on the Other Side: If you must eat, try to chew on the side that isn’t numb.
• Take It Easy: Sometimes, just kicking back helps the numbness disappear faster.

What to Expect as the Numbness Fades

As the anesthesia starts to wear off, you’ll gradually get feeling back in your mouth. You might experience a bit of tingling or that pins-and-needles sensation as the feeling returns. This is totally normal and should pass quickly. If you feel any discomfort once the numbness is gone, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.

When to Contact Marconi Dental Group

Sometimes numbness after a filling sticks around for a while. But how long is too long? While it usually isn’t something to worry about, certain situations require contacting our dental staff for some follow-up. 

That’s especially true if you experience:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Signs of infection

If you notice any of these, call our office immediately. We’ll get you in for an emergency dental appointment so we can check everything out. 

Wrapping It Up

So, how long does numbness last after a filling? Generally, you can expect it to last between 1 and 3 hours, but sometimes up to 5 hours. Remember, everyone’s different, so your experience might vary. Just follow the tips above to stay comfortable, and if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. Now you know exactly what to expect with numbness after a filling. Fixing a cavity is nothing to fear, and understanding that the numbness resolves pretty quickly should make you more at ease during your dental visits with us at Marconi Dental. If you have any questions or need more information, check out this helpful resource on local anesthesia. And you can always contact us to discuss it.