Question about Cavities?

Question

When they freeze your mouth with the needle, does the freezing go through your entire jaw or just the area they're working on? Does it make it harder to open your mouth? I have a jaw problem, and I' afraid I won't be able to open it while it's frozen.

Answer 1

the topical and the injection is not a "freezing" agent (like for warts).

it is an anesthetic.  it blocks the fibers that send signals for pain conduction.

it does NOT block the nerves that control your muscles.  You'll still be able to move, talk, and breathe, but won't feel pain.

let the dentist know about your jaw problem.  depending on the type of anesthetic, the numbness may last 1-4 hours.  your jaw may be numb, depending on the area that you are getting worked on and the method of injection.

--dentist

Answer 2

Usually the part that they're working on will feel numb and puffy. It won't normally extend to the jaw.