The most common reason patients hesitate when considering lip fillers is fear of pain. While topical numbing cream is the most common pain reduction option, many still report that the pain was more than they desired. Our providers have been trained by dentists to administer local anesthetic infiltration, more commonly referred to as a “Dental Block”, which most patients find makes the treatment much more comfortable. Those who have had previous treatments often say they would never want to return to just using topical numbing. Here’s everything you need to know about dental blocks in relation to lip filler procedures:

What is Dental Blocking?

Dental blocking involves administering a local anesthetic to numb specific nerves in the mouth, typically around the upper or lower lip area. This technique is performed by an experienced injector to ensure your comfort during the filler appointment.

How Does Dental Blocking Work?

Injection Process: Before starting the lip filler procedure, the injector will administer a local anesthetic (plain lidocaine) near the nerves responsible for sensation in the lips using a fine needle. This temporarily blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain, ensuring a more comfortable experience during the injection of dermal fillers. We do not use anesthetics that include epinephrine, which means patients usually do not experience the racing heart or stinging sensation typical of standard blocks.

Duration: The effects of dental blocking typically last less than an hour, providing ample time for the filler procedure to be completed without significant discomfort.

Benefits of Dental Blocking for Lip Filler Procedures

Pain Reduction: By numbing the nerves, dental blocking significantly reduces or eliminates pain associated with lip filler injections, enhancing patient comfort throughout the procedure.

Relaxation: Patients often feel more relaxed and at ease during the treatment, allowing the injector to focus on achieving precise results without interruptions due to discomfort.

Enhanced Precision: Numbing the lips allows the healthcare provider to administer fillers with greater precision, ensuring even distribution and natural-looking results.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Treatment Experience: During the lip filler procedure, you may feel pressure or slight movements as the filler is injected. However, with dental blocking in place, pain should be minimal or nonexistent. Patients also report their lips feeling “huge” due to the numb sensation or the feeling of drooling—but this is not the case!

Post-Procedure Sensations: After the procedure, you may experience temporary numbness in the lips and surrounding areas where the local anesthetic was applied. This sensation typically subsides as the anesthetic wears off.

Recovery: Follow any post-procedure care instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as avoiding excessive touching of the lips, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and using gentle skincare products.

Choosing a Qualified Provider

When considering lip filler treatments with dental blocking, it’s essential to choose a qualified and experienced healthcare provider who specializes in aesthetic procedures. They should have extensive training in both filler injections and dental blocking techniques to ensure safety and optimal results.

Conclusion

Dental blocking plays a crucial role in enhancing the comfort and satisfaction of patients undergoing lip filler procedures. By numbing the nerves in the mouth, dental blocking minimizes pain and allows for a smoother, more enjoyable experience during treatment. If you’re considering lip augmentation with dermal fillers, discuss the option of dental blocking with your healthcare provider to ensure a comfortable and rewarding cosmetic enhancement journey. With the right approach and expert care, you can achieve beautifully enhanced lips that complement your natural facial features, boosting your confidence and smile.

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