When undergoing dental procedures, local anesthetics are often used to numb the area being treated. These anesthetics temporarily block nerve signals, preventing pain during the procedure. The duration of the numbing effect varies depending on the type of anesthetic used, the amount administered, and the individual's metabolism.
Generally, the numbing effect from a dental anesthetic will start to wear off within a few hours. However, it may take several hours for the numbness to completely disappear. During this time, it is important to avoid chewing or biting on the numbed area, as this could cause damage to the teeth or gums.
