Why does it itch as dental anesthesia wears off?

Itching or a tingling sensation as anesthesia wears off is a normal part of recovery. As the anesthetic breaks down and nerve sensation returns, the nerves respond over-sensitively for a while, which can feel like itching, numbness, or burning. Dental local anesthesia usually wears off within 2 to 4 hours, and it is safer to eat only after it has, so you do not bite your lip or cheek. However, if lip or chin sensation has not returned a day after an extraction or implant surgery, there is a possibility of nerve damage, so please let the clinic know.