What is local anesthesia?

Local anesthesia is a numbing of the local area. It works by blocking the nerve that supplies sensation to the teeth in a specific area. Previously, Novocaine was a very common dental local anesthetic, but due to may allergic reactions to Novocaine, Lidocaine or Articaine are now more commonly used. You feel no pain during the procedure and are totally alert, aware, and able to function normally. The effect wears off fairly quickly with no side effects.