Nerve injury is an uncommon complication of lower wisdom tooth removal. Two nerves run close to lower wisdom teeth: one gives feeling to the lower lip, chin and teeth, and the other gives feeling and taste to the side of the tongue. If either is bruised or stretched during the procedure, the area it supplies can feel numb or tingly afterwards.
Symptoms
- Numbness, tingling or pins and needles in the lower lip, chin or tongue that remains after the local anaesthetic should have worn off.
- A change in taste on one side of the tongue.
- Less commonly, a burning or painful sensation in the area.
These nerves carry sensation only. They do not control movement, so the face and lips still move normally.
How common is it and does it recover?
Most people have no nerve symptoms after wisdom tooth removal. When a nerve is affected, the change is temporary in the majority of cases and improves over weeks to months as the nerve heals. In a small number of cases the change is long-term. The risk is higher when the roots of the tooth sit close to the nerve, when the tooth is deeply impacted, and with increasing age.
How the risk is assessed before treatment
A panoramic X-ray shows how close the roots are to the nerve canal. If they appear very close, a 3D scan may be recommended, and your dentist may discuss referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or other options. Your individual risk should be explained to you before you agree to treatment. See our wisdom teeth removal page for how assessment works at our practice.
What to do if you have numbness after an extraction
Contact the practice that removed the tooth if numbness or tingling continues the day after your procedure. Early assessments lets the dentist record the affected area, monitor recovery and refer you if needed. Take care not to bite a numb lip or tongue or burn it with hot food and drink. Other after-effects are covered in pain after tooth extraction and wisdom tooth pain relief.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
To book an appointment at Penrith Dental Care, 42 Castlereagh Street, Penrith, call the practice or book online. We are open Monday to Friday 9am to 6:30pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm.