Should I Consult a Neurologist for Nerve Damage After Tooth Extraction?

Should I seek medical attention for inferior alveolar nerve injury caused by tooth extraction?

Hello Dr.
Gao: Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions! I had my lower left wisdom tooth extracted four days ago, and I have been following the doctor's advice regarding medication and ice packs.
However, the sensation in my lower left jaw has not yet returned.
The day after the extraction, feeling confused, I sought medical attention again, and the doctor informed me that it might be related to the anesthesia, advising me to apply heat and wait a few more days.
Should I consult a neurologist? How long might it take to recover? Thank you once again for your generous insights!

Xiao Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/01/21

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

The inferior alveolar nerve is a small branch of the trigeminal nerve.
After wisdom tooth extraction, the chin usually recovers well, but sometimes localized swelling in the area can affect nerve function.
The recovery time is not fixed; it can take a couple of months for some individuals.
It is important to regularly follow up with your dentist to monitor the condition of the gums and the surgical site.
As the nerve begins to recover, you may initially experience a tingling or itching sensation, and there may also be sensitivity to temperature.
Overall, these symptoms indicate that the nerve is healing.

Reply Date: 2010/01/21

More Info

After a tooth extraction, particularly of a wisdom tooth, it is not uncommon to experience some degree of numbness or altered sensation in the surrounding areas, including the jaw, lip, or tongue. This can occur due to nerve irritation or damage during the procedure, especially if the tooth is located near the inferior alveolar nerve, which supplies sensation to the lower lip and chin.

In your case, since you are experiencing persistent numbness four days post-extraction, it is advisable to consult a neurologist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. While it is possible that the numbness is a temporary side effect of the anesthesia used during the procedure, it is important to rule out any potential nerve damage or complications.
Typically, numbness from dental procedures can resolve within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if the sensation does not return within a week or two, further evaluation may be necessary. A neurologist can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies or nerve conduction studies to assess the status of the affected nerves.

In terms of recovery time, it varies from person to person. Some individuals may regain full sensation within a few days, while others may take weeks or even months. In rare cases, if there has been significant nerve damage, recovery might not be complete.
In the meantime, following your dentist's advice regarding heat application and medication is crucial. Heat can help improve blood flow to the area, potentially aiding in nerve recovery. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and following any post-operative care instructions is essential to prevent infection, which could further complicate recovery.

If you notice any worsening of symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (like fever or pus), seek immediate medical attention. It’s also important to communicate any concerns you have with your dentist or oral surgeon, as they can provide guidance on whether a referral to a neurologist is warranted based on your specific situation.

In summary, while it may be too early to determine the exact cause of your numbness, consulting a neurologist can provide clarity and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Your health and comfort are paramount, and seeking further evaluation is a proactive step in managing your recovery.

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