Local anesthesia is produced by the application or injection of a drug to eliminate pain in a specific area in the mouth. Topical anesthetics are frequently used by your dentist to numb an area in preparation for administering an injectable local anesthetic. Injectable local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, numb mouth tissues in a specific area for a short period of time. Your dentist will probably inject a local anesthetic before filling cavities, preparing your teeth for crowns or for any surgical procedure. Local anesthesia is the most commonly used form of anesthesia in the dental office.

Conscious sedation can be used to help you relax during a dental procedure. Your dentist may administer an antianxiety agent, such as nitrous oxide, or a sedative, in combination with a local anesthetic for pain. During conscious sedation, you will remain calm during treatment, yet rational and responsive to speech and touch. Antianxiety agents and sedatives can be administered by mouth, inhalation or injection.