Local Anesthesia in Allentown, PA
At Kearns Family Dental, we prioritize your comfort during dental procedures. Local anesthesia is commonly used to numb specific areas of your mouth, ensuring you remain pain-free while we perform treatments such as fillings, crown placements, or root canals. Using modern anesthetics like Lidocaine, we provide effective, long-lasting numbness with minimal side effects, allowing you to receive the care you need with confidence.
What is Local Anesthesia?
Local anesthesia is a safe and effective way to numb a targeted area of your mouth during dental treatments. It works by blocking nerve signals that transmit pain to the brain, providing a pain-free experience. The effects typically last for two to four hours, depending on the type of anesthetic used and the procedure.
Types of Local Anesthesia
At Kearns Family Dental, we use two types of local anesthesia:
- Topical Anesthesia: This is applied directly to the surface of your gums to numb the area before an injection.
- Injectable Anesthesia: This is administered via injection to provide deeper numbness, ensuring that you remain comfortable during your procedure.
What to Expect During Local Anesthesia
Before administering anesthesia, our team will review your medical history to ensure it’s safe for you. You might feel a slight sting during the injection, which is simply the anesthetic starting to work. This sensation usually subsides within seconds. The numbness will last for a few hours, and you’ll be advised to avoid eating or drinking until the effects wear off to prevent accidental injury.
Common Side Effects of Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is generally very safe, but some mild side effects can occur, including:
- Temporary numbness lasting up to four hours.
- A brief, rapid heartbeat caused by the epinephrine in the anesthetic.
- Minor swelling or drooping of the mouth or face.
- Difficulty blinking (if numbing affects areas near the eyes).
These effects typically resolve as the anesthesia wears off.
Aftercare Tips for Local Anesthesia
Once your procedure is complete, it’s important to avoid eating or drinking until the numbness subsides. This prevents accidental biting of your lips, cheeks, or tongue. You may also experience slight swelling, which will resolve naturally within a few hours.
Schedule Your Dental Appointment in Allentown, PA
At Kearns Family Dental, your comfort is our priority. If you have any concerns about local anesthesia or are ready to schedule your dental treatment, call us at (610) 432-7565 or visit us at 216 North 17th Street, Allentown, PA 18104. We’re here to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.
