Local anaesthesia temporarily blocks pain signals in a selected area. You remain awake and can communicate with your dentist. It is used for many dental procedures, from treating a cavity to removing a tooth.
What might you feel?
Being numb does not always remove every sensation. You may still notice touch, pressure or movement. If you feel pain, tell the dentist immediately, using an agreed hand signal if helpful. You do not need to wait until the procedure ends or assume that pain must be endured.
Which information matters?
Mention medicines, allergies, pregnancy and previous reactions during anaesthesia. Describe what actually happened. Fainting, a racing heartbeat and an allergic reaction are different events, so the details help the team choose appropriate care.
After leaving the practice
Your lip, cheek or tongue may remain numb for a while. Take care not to bite them or burn yourself with a hot drink. The return of sensation depends on the medicine, injection site and individual response. Follow the eating advice you receive.
Contact the practice if numbness lasts substantially longer than you were told to expect. Sudden breathing difficulty or throat swelling requires immediate emergency help. Local anaesthesia is different from sedation and general anaesthesia, which involve different preparation and aftercare arrangements.