How Long Does Lidocaine Last?

A patient in a dentist's chair with tools in her mouth being used by a dentist.

So, you’ve scheduled a dental procedure with our oral health team here at Marconi Dental Group. It’s normal to be a bit apprehensive — especially if it’s your first time. You might even be asking yourself, “How long does lidocaine last?” 

Welp, you’re not alone. Lidocaine is one of the go-to anesthetics we like to use in the dental field. So, let’s take a look at how it works, if there are any side effects, and how long this numbing agent lasts.  

Tell Me A Bit More About Lidocaine

Before we jump right into how long this anesthetic lasts, let’s learn the basics about this anesthetic medication. 

Lidocaine is a true go-to in the world of local anesthetics. Dentists use it to numb a specific area of your mouth or face to prevent pain during your oral health procedure. There are all sorts of forms and applications, including: 

  • Patches 
  • Creams 
  • Injections
  • Sprays 

Now that you know a bit of the basics, it’s time for the big question on your mind: how long does lidocaine last?

The Lifespan of Lidocaine — Patch, Cream, and Injection

Let’s break down the various forms of lidocaine and how long each one lasts.

Lidocaine Injection

When it comes to dental work or minor oral surgeries, injections are the go-to. So, how long does lidocaine last when injected? 

Typically, the numbing effect kicks in within a few minutes and can last between 1-3 hours. However, this can vary depending on the dosage and the area being treated. And if it’s combined with other medications like epinephrine, it can last even longer.

Lidocaine Cream

Now, it’s time for the Marconi Dental team to discuss lidocaine cream. This stuff is fantastic for numbing the skin before procedures involving the jaw. 

After we rub in the lidocaine cream, you’ll start feeling the numbing effect in less than half an hour. However, we understand that you really want to know how long does lidocaine cream last? From our experience, the effects last from 1-2 hours. That’s exactly the reason it’s perfect for short procedures or managing minor pain like a toothache or TMJ disorder.

Lidocaine Patch

These patches are great for providing longer-lasting relief. Once you slap one on, it takes about an hour for the numbing sensation to set in. So, how long does a lidocaine patch last? You can expect relief for up to 12 hours. 

Factors That Affect How Long Lidocaine Lasts

The duration of lidocaine’s effects isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. Several factors come into play, including:

  • Dosage: Higher doses can prolong the numbing effect.
  • Area of Application: More vascular areas may absorb the drug faster, reducing its duration.
  • Individual Metabolism: Everyone’s body processes drugs differently. Your metabolism can also affect how long it lasts.
  • Combination with Other Medications: Sometimes, the numbing medication is combined with epinephrine to constrict blood vessels, which can extend the numbing effect.

What Are Lidocaine Side Effects?

Like any medication, lidocaine can come with its own set of side effects. Here are some to watch out for:

  • Mild Side Effects: You might experience redness, swelling, or mild irritation at the application site.
  • Moderate Side Effects: Dizziness, nausea, or a mild headache can occur.
  • Severe Side Effects: Though rare, some people might experience allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or severe swelling. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

For more detailed information about potential side effects, you might want to check out this helpful guide from the Mayo Clinic.

Here Are Some Tips for Using Lidocaine Safely

Lidocaine is super safe. Dentists around the world have been using it for years. That said, you can never be too informed, and your safety is always the priority. Here are a few tips compiled by our dental team to keep in mind: 

  • Follow Directions: Whether it’s a patch, cream, or injection, always use as directed by your healthcare provider.
  • Avoid Overuse: More isn’t always better. Using too much can increase the risk of side effects.
  • Inform Your Doctor: Always let your doctor know if you have any allergies or are taking other medications.

Wrapping It Up — Lidocaine Makes Your Procedure Completely Painless

So, how long does lidocaine last? Whether it’s a patch, cream, or injection, the duration can vary. Injections typically last one to three hours, creams around one to two hours, and patches up to 12 hours. Factors like dosage, the area of application, and individual metabolism can influence how long the effects last.One of the biggest takeaways is to always use lidocaine as directed by our Marconi Dental team. We’ll also give you a list of rare side effects to keep an eye out for. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about the days leading up to your dental procedure with us, just contact us, and one of our dentists will be happy to speak with you. 

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