Whether you’re getting fillings for cavities or a root canal, your dentist will generally apply some form of anesthetic to eliminate pain during the procedure. While this is a definite plus during your treatment, the lingering numbness can be rather annoying in the hours afterward. Thankfully, there are several tricks you can use to make the numbing sensation disappear faster.

The Top 3 Tricks to Eliminate Numbness After Your Dental Procedure

1. Exercise

Anything that gets your body moving after your dental procedure will help numbness go away. You don’t have to do an intensive workout. Even simple actions, like going for a walk or bike ride or taking care of household chores, will get the blood flowing.

Increased blood flow helps the body metabolize the anesthetic and carry it away from where it was injected. Check with your dentist to make sure you can safely participate in such activities after your procedure.

2. Heat or Massage the Treated Area

You can also increase blood flow around the anesthetic injection site by applying a warm compress to the area or massaging your lips. The warmth will help the body break down the anesthetic. To avoid the risk of infection, wash your hands before massaging your lips and face, and never touch the injection site.

3. Nap

Taking a nap may not actually help the numbness go away faster, but it will certainly make it less of a bother. If you take a short nap after your procedure, the numbness will dissipate naturally while you sleep, leaving you feeling back to normal once you wake up again.

From routine dental exams to advanced orthodontic care, you can count on North Ft. Mitchell Dentistry in Covington, KY. Led by dentist John M. Schulte, DMD, this dental office has served northern Kentucky residents for over 40 years, offering caring and effective treatments to improve your oral health. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit them online or call (859) 331-0763.