Dental anesthetic only numbs the soft tissues (cheek, gums, tongue, lips) but does absolutely nothing to numb the tooth pain. It's just placebo; since your face is numb you assume it lessens the dental pain. NOPE. I've had my last 3 fillings and a root canal with zero anesthetic. Other than a little gum discomfort the tooth pain is EXACTLY the same. I'm not afraid of needles at all, but now I don't have to deal with a tingly face for the next 5 hours after going home. Dentist always looks at me like I'm crazy, but if it really becomes a problem you can always have him shoot you up mid-procedure. Not like it will help anything anyways. Give it a try. Call out the dental cabals lies. There is nothing to lose, but having a numb face all afternoon.