To help our dental patients relax and to reduce pain, our doctors use local anesthesia, also called local anesthetic, for certain procedures. Local anesthesia is a one-time injection of medicine that numbs a small area of the body. Nitrous oxide is also used as an anti-anxiety tool.

Local anesthesia will not put you to sleep. You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have, but no pain will be felt in the area being treated. The effects of local anesthesia typically wear off within 30 to 60 minutes after removing the mask. Healthcare professionals consider local anesthesia as a relatively safe way to numb a small area before a procedure. It also serves to help manage pain in your mouth.

Talk to us about any concerns or fears you may have, and we’ll do everything we can to make sure you’re comfortable, with as little pain as possible.