Local anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic is a simple and effective method to reduce pain during fillings or extractions. It temporarily causes the loss of sensation to the area. It will wear off on its own in 2 to 4 hours.
How local anaesthetic is applied
A numbing gel is used on the gums around the tooth. This takes about 30 seconds and then the area is ready to be put to sleep.
A numbing gel is used on the gums around the tooth. This takes about 30 seconds and then the area is ready to be put to sleep.
A short, very fine needle is used to put the anaesthetic into the gum beside the tooth. Your child might feel a little pinch or scratch when it goes in, then it will start feeling numb.
A short, very fine needle is used to put the anaesthetic into the gum beside the tooth. Your child might feel a little pinch or scratch when it goes in, then it will start feeling numb.
We rinse off the anaesthetic afterwards as it has a bitter taste.
We rinse off the anaesthetic afterwards as it has a bitter taste.
Care after local anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic will last a few hours before wearing off. It is important for your child to be careful while eating as they may not feel their lip or parts of their tongue during this time.
It is really important your child does not bite, suck or touch their lip while it is still number. This could hurt the lip and cause a red swollen ulcer. An ulcer can be painful for 3 to 4 days until it heals.
If an ulcer is not healing after 7 days, contact us or your healthcare provider.