Gums and Jaw Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Gums and Jaw Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello： Since you have already scheduled the examination, please be patient while you wait. <br>If you experience any pain or discomfort during the waiting period, you can ask your doctor to prescribe pain relief medication to alleviate your symptoms.

Numbness and tingling in the gums and chin?

A month ago, I had a tooth in my lower jaw that hurt when biting down on things.
I immediately went to see a dentist, who cleaned my teeth and then sent me home.
After that, the pain in that tooth decreased, but my entire lower gum started to feel numb.
I went to see the dentist six more times, and they all told me that my teeth were fine and that it might be caused by something else.
However, recently I've also been experiencing numbness in my jaw, and pressing on it causes pain.
At night, I feel very numb and in pain, making it hard to sleep.
I went to a neurologist for an initial examination, and she said it probably isn't a trigeminal nerve issue, but she scheduled some tests for me.
However, I can't wait until the day of the tests.
Which specialist should I see?

H, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/09

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology

Hello: Since you have already scheduled the examination, please be patient while you wait.
If you experience any pain or discomfort during the waiting period, you can ask your doctor to prescribe pain relief medication to alleviate your symptoms.

Reply Date: 2022/01/09

More Info

When experiencing numbness in the gums and jaw, especially after dental treatment, it is essential to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek further medical help. Your symptoms of gum numbness and pain in the jaw, particularly after dental work, can be concerning and may indicate several possible conditions.

Firstly, it is important to consider that dental procedures, such as teeth cleaning or extractions, can sometimes lead to temporary nerve irritation or trauma. This can result in numbness or tingling sensations in the gums and jaw area. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to investigate further.

Given that you have already consulted with multiple dentists who have ruled out dental issues, it may be time to explore other medical specialties. Since your symptoms have progressed to include numbness in the jaw and pain, it would be advisable to consult with a neurologist. A neurologist specializes in conditions affecting the nervous system and can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if there is an underlying neurological issue contributing to your symptoms.

In addition to a neurologist, you might also consider seeing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. These specialists focus on conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, and face, and they can assess whether there are any structural issues or nerve entrapments that could be causing your symptoms. They may also perform imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to visualize the jaw and surrounding structures.

It is also worth noting that conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause similar symptoms, including jaw pain, numbness, and discomfort. TMJ disorders can arise from teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or misalignment of the jaw. If this is suspected, a dentist with experience in TMJ disorders may be able to provide further insights and treatment options.

While waiting for your scheduled tests, there are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms. Applying a warm compress to the affected area may help alleviate discomfort. Additionally, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can provide temporary relief from pain.

In summary, given your persistent symptoms of gum and jaw numbness, it is advisable to seek a consultation with a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation. If necessary, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon can also provide valuable insights. It is crucial to address these symptoms promptly, as they can significantly impact your quality of life, including your ability to sleep and perform daily activities. Do not hesitate to advocate for your health and seek further evaluations until you receive a satisfactory explanation and treatment plan for your symptoms.

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