Ahhh, needles. Almost universally disliked but a necessity in dentistry and healthcare. At Kits Family Dental, we often hear from new patients that injections have been a source of discomfort and anxiety in the past. Do you know what else we hear a lot? “That was the most painless injection I’ve ever had!”
It’s true. Our Kitsilano dentists, Dr. Robin Mak, Dr. Sakura Iwagami, and Dr. Michael Fenrich, pride themselves on their gentle, low-pain injection techniques. From anxious adults to squirmy toddlers, we know how to put patients at ease so they can get the care (and numbing) they need.
In this post, we’ll discuss the basics of dental injections, the procedures they’re used for, and the techniques we employ to make them as comfortable as possible.
When Are Dental Injections Necessary?
Dental injections deliver local anesthetic to numb your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues, ensuring you don’t feel any discomfort during dental procedures. At Kits Family Dental, we use these injections for treatments like:
- Fillings for cavities
- Root canal therapy
- Tooth extractions (including wisdom teeth)
- Crown and bridgework preparation
- Biopsies
But before the needle even makes an appearance, we take steps to make sure you’re relaxed and ready.
What Do Dentists Use to Numb Gums and Teeth?
Dentists use a local anesthetic to numb the teeth and gums. People often refer to the medication as Novocaine, which was the most common local anesthetic used in dentistry a few decades ago. However, it’s rarely used these days. Modern options, including Lidocaine, work better, last longer, and have a lower risk of side effects.
The dentist injects the anesthesia next to the nerve in the area being treated. The medication then blocks the nerve from sending pain signals to the brain. Because of this, you won’t feel much of anything during the procedure, aside from movement and a bit of pressure.
Do dentists use numbing gel before the injection? At Kits Family Dental, the answer is always, yes! By applying a topical anesthetic first, we desensitize the area and minimize dental injection pain.
How We Perform Low-Pain Dental Injections
- Topical Anesthesia First:
Our dentists apply a special numbing gel to your gums and cheeks before the injection. This takes the sting out of the initial poke. - Discreet Needle Use:
We keep the dental needle out of sight, especially for kids and people with dental anxiety. We also use non-scary terms like “sleepy juice” to describe the process for little ones. - Gentle Technique:
Our dentists have placed thousands of dental anesthesia shots, so they know how to make the process quick and easy. They can also use technology, such as the DentalVibe® device, which diverts pain signals during injections. - Distraction Tactics:
Our cozy exam rooms have TVs on the ceiling, and we offer pillows and blankets, so you can focus on your favourite show, not the injection or the procedure. - Clear Communication:
We explain each step and use positive language to create a calm environment. The dentist will also check in with you throughout the procedure to monitor your comfort level.
Leveraging the Gate Control Theory Pain
We apply the gate control theory of pain (GCT) to dentistry to significantly reduce discomfort during injections and other procedures. The basis of GCT is that pain can be minimized by stimulating the same area of the body with non-painful touch.
One way we incorporate GCT into injections is through the shake technique. The dentist shakes the cheek in the treatment area before and during the injection. The shaking sensation reaches the brain before the pinch of the needle, which lessens discomfort.
Another great application of GCT is using the DentalVibe device.
What is DentalVibe®?
DentalVibe is a small, handheld device that’s a game-changer for very needle-phobic patients. The dentist places the tool on the gum tissue near the injection site, and it emits gentle vibrations. These vibrations stimulate the nerve endings and divert pain signals, so you feel the vibrations instead of the shot.
How Long Does Numbness Last After the Dentist?
After a dental injection, the numbness typically lasts two to four hours, depending on the type of anesthetic used and the procedure. To prevent accidental injury, we recommend that you avoid eating food or drinking anything hot until the anesthetic has worn off completely.
Why Modern Techniques Matter
A fear of pain is a huge driver of dental anxiety and the dental freezing needle (another term for the dental anesthesia shot) is one aspect of this. For some, the thought of the injection alone causes stress. That’s why our approach emphasizes compassion and care:
- Pain-Free Philosophy: Every patient deserves a comfortable experience. We cater our techniques to individuals, whether it’s a child needing extra reassurance or an adult afraid of the dentist.
- Proven Tools: We use the latest techniques and anesthetics for maximum numbing with minimal discomfort.
Overcoming Dental Anxiety: Conscious Sedation
For patients with severe dental anxiety, we offer conscious sedation. Prescription oral anxiolytics are taken an hour before the appointment. You’ll be awake and able to respond to directions but feel relaxed and calm. You will need an adult to drive you to and from your appointment.
Gentle Injections, Happier Smiles
At Kits Family Dental, we don’t think anyone should dread going to the dentist. Whether you’re having a tooth extracted, getting a filling, or undergoing root canal treatment, our gentle injection techniques ensure a stress-free, comfortable experience.
Ready to experience dentistry without the sting? Book your appointment today and discover the perks of modern, compassionate care.
