If you have had this done, did your gums bleed a lot during the procedure? What was your pain like after the novacaine wore off? I am going in tomorrow for the top half of my mouth and I am VERY worried! Also, if your dentist used irrigation, was there a lof of water in you rmouth at one time?

Thanks for your encouragement and information!
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I'm a dentist.

You should be anesthetized for the procedure (which, unless the doctor knows how to give a "V-2 nerve block", requires multiple shots to numb your top teeth). Nonetheless, don't expect the procedure to produce much discomfort, if any.

Pain afterward is mild to moderate, but can be controlled adequately with over-the-counter painkillers.

The amount of bleeding varies, depending on the level of inflammation of your periodontal tissues. It's never severe though, and even patients on coumadin and other blood thinners are ok to have this procedure.

Finally, concerning the water: we try to prevent water from pooling up in your mouth. In all honesty, though, you can certainly swallow if need be.