Do you know a lot about novocaine(I assume thats a standard dentist anesthetic)? Had a dentist issue.?

Question

When I was at my dentist I had some problems with the anesthetic as it was wearing off too soon. I received 3 of something called ampoules and I was told I cannot be given any more as 6 ampoules is a toxic dose. What does that mean? Can I have problems from that much anesthetic?

Answer 1

Novocaine (brand name) refers specifically to procaine (generic name), a type of local anaesthetic (LA) that is no longer used. It has become a layperson term for LA in general.
The most common LA nowadays is lidocaine, often with adrenaline to make the numbness last longer. In dentistry, we usually use cartridges (1.8 or 2.2ml) rather than ampoules (usually 10ml). Perhaps there is some confusion here about what was actually used. 3 ampoules of 10ml would be an overdose in itself, so I believe you are really getting cartridges.
And then different LAs contain different concentrations, so different maximum numbers of cartridges.
For most procedures using lidocaine with Adr, the effect lasts 50-60 minutes, which is enough for most dental procedures. Longer-lasting LAs are available (e.g. bupivicaine, ropivicaine) and are usually used for more difficult procedures like wisdom teeth extractions where more numbness is wanted post-op for patient comfort.
The maximum dose of 6 cartridges is NOT toxic, but is called the Maximum Recommended Dose (MRD). 6 cartridges is quite acceptable as there is an allowance for people who respond more than others (hyper-responders). The first signs of overdose are tremors of the legs and arms, and drowsiness). In some studies, people have received much more than the MRD without side-effects.
If your dentist is having difficulty numbing you, the most common reasons are either a hyperalgesic tooth i.e. a tooth that is already painful and does not respond well to the normal dosages of LA, or poor technique by your dentist.
If this is a common problem with your dentist, I would suggest trying someone else.

Answer 2

It could also mean he/she missed the right spot to put the shot in. My current dentist takes alot of time doing the shot, but now it always works. Previously, 2 shots were never enough because it was carried away by the blood stream.

Toxic means poisonous. http://www.webster.com/dictionary/toxic

Ampoule is just a small glass container welded shut.
http://www.webster.com/dictionary/ampoule

Answer 3

I need a lot of Novocaine when I go to the dentist. I usually get about three doses because I can still feel the pin prick. it shouldn't wear off for at least a few hours if the dentist is getting it into the right spot.

Answer 4

it means that it can cause serious side effects that can compromise your health. yes you can have problems from that much anesthetic, that's why you were given only 3 instead of 6