A dentist uses a local anesthetic to ensure minimal pain during a procedure. After treatment, it's normal to experience some numbness. The feeling can last a few hours, and though it isn't dangerous, the experience can be a little awkward. Thankfully, the methods below can alleviate that dull sensation and get you feeling normal a little sooner.

How to Get Numbness to Wear Off Following a Dental Visit

1. Drink Lots of Fluids

Hydration is always essential for a healthy body, but it's especially vital after a dental procedure. Consuming plenty of water will help flush the anesthesia out of your system, speeding up the recovery process. If your mouth feels excessively numb, use a straw to make drinking easier.

2. Apply a Warm Compress

As long as there's no swelling present, keeping a warm compress near the affected area for up to 20 minutes can help with numbness. The heat will increase blood flow, relieving minor discomfort along with the dull feeling you're experiencing. Before practicing this step, cover the compress to avoid placing heat directly on your skin.

3. Be More Active

Getting up and moving around can help increase blood flow and speed up recovery. Light activity stimulates blood flow, pushing the anesthesia away from the injection site and diluting it throughout your body. After your treatment, take a brisk walk, do some light yard work, or finish some household chores. 

4. Eat Soft Foods

Eating often agitates the affected area, extending the length of time you feel numbness. After leaving the dentist's office, be mindful of what you eat during the first six to 24 hours. Consuming softer foods like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes will help avoid putting too much pressure on your teeth and gums, which are sensitive after a procedure.

If you are looking for a reliable dentist to enhance your oral care, visit John M. Schulte, DMD, in Covington, KY. This family dental practice has offered patients throughout northern Kentucky a friendly environment and personalized treatment plans for over four decades. Whether you need a teeth cleaning or extraction, they will use industry-leading technology and techniques to ensure the best results. Call (859) 331-0763 to make an appointment with this dentist, and visit the website to learn more about their services.