Gum Numbness After Dental Treatment: Causes and Remedies

Numbness of the gums?

Several years ago, I had a tooth that underwent root canal treatment, and recently it suddenly started to swell and become inflamed.
I went to see a dentist, who applied a paste (which contained small fragments resembling orange peel fibers) to that tooth.
He instructed me to hold it in my mouth for four hours before eating or drinking.
He also prescribed pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and a stomach medication.
That night, the discomfort in the tooth subsided, but the next day, I began to feel a tingling sensation in my gums.
The tingling was most severe the following evening, but it gradually improved, and I returned to normal after about 3-4 days.
Although the dentist mentioned that the applied medication was propolis, I would like to ask if it is possible that he applied a local anesthetic, as the symptoms I experienced seem to suggest that.
Additionally, are there any oral anesthetic pastes available on the market that take one day to take effect and can provide relief for 3-4 days?

Mr. Zhang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/28

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may suddenly swell and become inflamed, which could be due to periodontal inflammation or a possible crack in the tooth itself.
Although applying a propolis-like ointment has reduced the swelling, it is still advisable to monitor for any recurrence.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/05/28

More Info

Understanding gum numbness after dental treatment can be quite complex, especially when considering the various factors that can contribute to this sensation. In your case, it seems that you experienced swelling and inflammation in a tooth that had previously undergone root canal treatment. After your dentist applied a topical medication, you noticed numbness in your gums, which raises several questions about the treatment and the medication used.

Firstly, the numbness you experienced could be attributed to a few different factors. The topical medication applied by your dentist, which you mentioned contained small fragments resembling orange peel fibers, is likely a form of medicated paste designed to reduce inflammation and promote healing. While your dentist indicated that the medication was propolis (a resinous substance produced by bees), it is important to note that some topical treatments can have numbing effects, although they are not typically classified as local anesthetics.
Local anesthetics, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, are commonly used in dental procedures to numb the area around the tooth being treated. These anesthetics work by blocking nerve signals in the area where they are applied, leading to a temporary loss of sensation. However, the numbness you experienced a day after the application of the medication is less likely to be due to a local anesthetic, as these typically take effect quickly and wear off within a few hours. It is more plausible that the sensation of numbness was a result of the inflammatory response in your gums or a reaction to the medication itself.

In terms of the timeline you described, it is not uncommon for patients to experience delayed reactions to dental treatments or medications. The initial relief you felt after the application of the medication could have been due to its anti-inflammatory properties, while the subsequent numbness may have been a result of the healing process or irritation of the surrounding tissues. The fact that the numbness gradually resolved over a few days suggests that it was likely a temporary reaction rather than a sign of a more serious issue.

Regarding your question about the availability of oral anesthetic ointments that take effect after a day and last for several days, such products are generally not common in the market. Most topical anesthetics are designed for immediate use and provide short-term relief. There are some formulations that may offer longer-lasting effects, but they typically do not follow the delayed onset you described. If you are looking for pain relief or numbing agents for oral use, it is best to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider for recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

In conclusion, the numbness you experienced after your dental treatment is likely a temporary reaction related to the healing process or the medication used. It is essential to maintain open communication with your dentist regarding any unusual symptoms you experience after treatment. If numbness or discomfort persists, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out any underlying issues, such as nerve damage or infection. Always follow your dentist's post-treatment instructions and report any concerns promptly to ensure optimal recovery and oral health.

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