Cheri
The anesthetic we use for dental treatment is not "novocaine" anymore and has not been for a LONG time. We mostly use Lidocaine, Xylocaine, Septodent, Marcaine, Neo-Cobrifin, Carbocaine, and Cetanest Plain. The racing heartbeat you felt is from the epinephrine in the injection which helps keep the site "numb" longer and also keeps any bleeding down to a minimum. What you felt should have only lasted 5 minutes or so after the injection. It probably scared you so much ( as you stated you are now nervous about going back) that your anxiety level was way up. Did you mention this to the Dr. or the assistant? They would have been able to reassure you that this does happen and that it will be lasting a short time. Do discuss this when you go back and they can give you another kind without the epi in it, however, it is not as effective as I stated before. You hopefully will learn that this does happen, and good and honest communication with your dental staff can help calm your fears and help you get the treatment that you need. Ask them to use cetanest plain or carbocaine next visit. Best wishes, Cheri***