Dental freezing typically lasts 1 to3 hours, depending on the procedure and individual factors like metabolism.

In this post, we’ll cover what dental freezing is, how long it lasts, and tips for managing the numbness. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect and how to make the process easier.

What Is Dental Freezing?

Dental freezing, or local anaesthesia, numbs specific areas of your mouth to prevent pain during procedures like fillings, extractions, or root canals. Common numbing agents like lidocaine and articaine block the nerves from sending pain signals to your brain. This allows your dentist to work while you remain comfortable.

How Long Does Dental Freezing Last?

Typically, numbness lasts between 1to 3 hours in soft tissues (lips, cheeks, tongue). While a procedure may take about 30 minutes, the numbing effects persist longer. The exact duration depends on factors like the type of anaesthetic used, where it’s injected, and individual metabolism.

What Influences Numbness Duration?

Several factors can affect how long the numbness lasts:

• Type of Procedure: Minor treatments like fillings usually require less freezing than complex ones like root canals or extractions.
• Anaesthetic: Some anaesthetics contain epinephrine, which extends the numbing effect.
• Personal Factors: Age, weight, and health can influence how quickly the freezing wears off. A faster metabolism might result in quicker recovery.
• Injection Site: Freezing the lower jaw tends to last longer than freezing the upper jaw.

What Does Numbness Feel Like?

Dental freezing often feels strange—like trying to drink from a straw without success. You might experience a floppy lip, a “heavy” tongue, or a cheek that feels inflated, even though it looks normal. It can be tingly, swollen, or just unusual—but it’s a completely normal response.

When Will the Numbness Go Away?

Generally, you’ll begin to feel normal again within 2 to 3 hours. After simpler procedures like fillings, the numbness might wear off in 90 minutes. For longer procedures like extractions or root canals, it could last up to 4 hours. Rest assured, your face will return to normal.

How to Speed Up the Process

While you can’t instantly"de-freeze," here are a few tips to help reduce the numbness:

• Move your mouth: Smiling, talking, or frowning can help wake up the nerves.
• Warm compress: Applying warmth to your face can increase circulation.
• Stay upright: Lying down might slow down the process.
• Hydrate: Drinking water can aid recovery.

If you’re looking for quicker relief, ask your dentist about Ora Verse, a reversal agent that can reduce numbness time.

What if Numbness Persists?

If the numbness lasts beyond 5 hours, or if you experience prolonged tingling after a day or two, it’s worth checking in with your dentist. At Dental Clinic - Smile Shapers Napanee, your trusted dentist in Napanee, we're always here to help and provide reassurance if you're feeling uncertain. Rarely, there can be temporary nerve irritation, but this usually resolves on its own.

Seek dental advice if you notice:

• Continued numbness the next day
• Pain or swelling
• Unusual taste or rash

It’s always better to ask than to guess.

How to Handle the Numbness Comfortably

While you're still numb, it’s important to avoid:

• Hot drinks that could burn your tongue
• Chewing on the frozen side to avoid accidentally biting yourself
• Assuming your lips are clean after eating—check before speaking
• Letting young kids bite their numb lips or tongues, which can lead to swelling or pain

Final Thoughts

Dental freezing is a safe, temporary solution that keeps you comfortable during procedures. In most cases, the numbness fades in a few hours, and you’ll be back to normal before you know it.If you have any questions or concerns about the freezing or anesthesia, don’t hesitate to contact us. As your trusted Napanee dentist, we're here to help you understand what to expect before, during, and after your visit.

Because your smile is worth it.