A short-acting local anesthetic lasts less than:

A short-acting local anesthetic typically provides pain relief for a limited duration, generally lasting less than 30 minutes. This characteristic makes short-acting anesthetics suitable for minor procedures where a quick onset of anesthesia is required and where a prolonged anesthetic effect is not necessary.

In a clinical setting, short-acting anesthetics can be advantageous when quick recovery of sensation and mobility is desired. For instance, they may be used in dental procedures such as cavity preparation or tooth extractions that do not require extended anesthetic effects. This quick duration allows for a faster return to normal functioning and comfort for the patient.

Longer-acting anesthetics, on the other hand, may be used for more extensive procedures or when postoperative pain management is a concern. Understanding the duration of action of various local anesthetics is crucial for dental professionals to make informed decisions based on the needs of the procedure and the patient.