What is local anaesthetic?

Local anaesthetic is used by dental professionals to temporarily numb your teeth and
gums during dental treatment. It helps prevent discomfort or pain and is the most
common type of dental anaesthesia.
How does it work?
There are two types of local anaesthetic topical and injectable. Topical
anaesthetic gel is applied to your gums to numb the surface. Local anaesthetic can
also be injected locally (into your gums) to anaesthetise or numb the nerve supply
of the teeth that need treatment. Dental treatments where you may need local
anaesthetic include:
fillings >
extractions >
root canal treatments. >
Local anaesthetic
a guide for parents and clients
For more information
SA Dental Service Health Promotion Unit
GPO Box 864
Adelaide SA 5001
Telephone: 8222 9016
Fax: 8222 9020
TTY: 8222 8390
www.sadental.sa.gov.au
Interpreter services
Interpreters are available through SA Dental Service.
Staff can arrange for an interpreter to contact you. Please call 8222 9016 to arrange this.
Department of Health, Government of South Australia.
All rights reserved. Printed November 2009. Stock no 7171.
Important information
The numbing effect takes place almost straight away and can last for several hours.
Your mouth, lip or cheek may feel fat or swollen, and you may find it hard to speak
clearly, eat, drink or swallow while your mouth is still numb.
Do not bite or chew your numb lip or cheek you may cause damage >
without realising it!
Children may need to be reassured that the numb feeling will go away. >
Side effects
Local anaesthetic is considered very safe. While side effects and allergic reactions are
rare, they may include:
bruising >
nerve damage >
infection >
increased heart rate. >
It is important to let dental clinic staff know:
if you have had a reaction to local anaesthetic in the past >
if you think you have had a reaction to the local anaesthetic during or after your >
dental appointment.
Please inform your dental professional if you are taking medication or have
any medical problems that may affect the use of local anaesthetic.