Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Nerve Damage and Healing Time Concerns

Q: Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Nerve Damage and Healing Time Concerns

Hello, Miss Ice Cream： It is likely that the wound from the wisdom tooth extraction is infected, and during the extraction process, there may have been some grinding of the jawbone or impact on the inferior alveolar nerve. <br>Therefore, there may be more severe inflammation and

Problems Faced After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Hello, I would like to ask the doctor, I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted 11 days ago, and currently, the lower right part of my lip and the area below my mouth are numb.
I read online that this might be due to nerve damage, and I would like to know how long it typically takes to heal.
Besides taking B vitamins, are there other ways to expedite the healing process? Additionally, when I eat slightly firmer foods (like soft but large pieces of meat), I feel discomfort when opening my mouth, accompanied by mild pain.
If I chew a few times, I even feel pain radiating to my right temple, and the other teeth on the lower right side feel tighter.
I would like to know if there are any symptoms associated with this, or how long it might take to heal.
Thank you, doctor.

Bingqilin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/25

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello, Miss Ice Cream: It is likely that the wound from the wisdom tooth extraction is infected, and during the extraction process, there may have been some grinding of the jawbone or impact on the inferior alveolar nerve.
Therefore, there may be more severe inflammation and pain during the healing process.
It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene; in addition to brushing your teeth, using mouthwash can help clean the wound.
Ensure you are getting adequate nutrition to aid in wound healing, which typically takes over a month for normal healing.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2024/06/25

More Info

After a wisdom tooth extraction, particularly in cases where the tooth is impacted or positioned horizontally, there can be concerns regarding nerve damage, especially to the inferior alveolar nerve or the lingual nerve. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as numbness in the lower lip and chin area, are indicative of potential nerve involvement.
Typically, nerve damage from dental procedures can manifest as numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the affected area. In many cases, this numbness is temporary and can resolve on its own. However, the duration of recovery can vary significantly from person to person. In general, if the nerve was bruised rather than severed, you might expect to see improvement within a few weeks to a few months. If the nerve was more severely damaged, it could take longer, and in some cases, full recovery may not occur.

In your situation, since it has been 11 days post-extraction, it is still within the early recovery phase. Many patients report gradual improvement in nerve function over the first few weeks. However, if the numbness persists beyond a few months, it is advisable to consult with your dentist or an oral surgeon for further evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI, to assess the extent of any nerve damage.

Regarding your question about healing time and methods to expedite recovery, there are a few strategies you can consider:
1. Vitamin B Complex: As you mentioned, B vitamins, particularly B12, are essential for nerve health and regeneration. Continuing to supplement with B vitamins may be beneficial.

2. Avoiding Irritants: Try to avoid hard or crunchy foods that may exacerbate discomfort. Stick to a soft diet to minimize strain on the jaw and surrounding tissues.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. If the pain is significant, your dentist may prescribe stronger medication.

4. Gentle Massage: If comfortable, gently massaging the area around the jaw can help improve circulation and may alleviate some discomfort.

5. Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy focused on the jaw and facial muscles may help improve function and reduce pain.

6. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with your dentist are crucial. They can monitor your healing process and provide additional interventions if necessary.

As for the tightness in your other teeth and the discomfort radiating to your temple, this could be due to muscle tension or referred pain from the extraction site. It’s not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort in adjacent areas following dental surgery. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to discuss them with your dentist, as they may indicate a need for further evaluation or treatment.

In summary, while nerve healing can take time, many patients experience improvement within weeks to months. Maintaining communication with your dental care provider is key to ensuring a smooth recovery and addressing any complications that may arise. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms do not improve, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.

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