If you’re scheduled for wisdom teeth removal, chances are you’re feeling a little nervous. It’s common to have questions and concerns about the procedure, especially regarding how long the numbness will last. For most people, the numbness wears off within a few hours. However, in some cases, it may last a little longer. You need to know about post-operative numbness from wisdom teeth removal.
Why am I numb after teeth wisdom removal?
When you have your wisdom teeth removed, there’s a chance you may experience numbness. This is because the nerve that provides sensation to your lips, gums, teeth, and chin runs very close to where your wisdom teeth are located. If this nerve is damaged or impinged during the extraction process, you may experience paresthesia (or numbness) in the area.
Another major cause of numbness is inflammation in the area where the wisdom teeth were removed. Once the teeth are removed, blood vessels dilate. This dilation allows for the healing process but can also lead to impinging the nerve tissue in the area. This causes a temporary numbness that is resolved within a few months. It takes so long for the numbness to fix itself because nerve tissue takes much longer to heal than any other tissue in your body.
But don’t worry – in most cases, the body will heal, and you will recover completely.
How long does numbness last after wisdom teeth removal?
When it comes to wisdom teeth removal, one of the most common concerns is how long the numbness will last. For most people, the numbness will dissipate within a few hours—however, in some cases, the numbness may last a little longer. If you experience prolonged numbness after your wisdom teeth removal, speak with your dentist.
Taking care of your mouth and following the proper post-operative instructions will help reduce the risk of complications and ensure a speedy recovery.
What are some complications of wisdom teeth removal?
While wisdom teeth removal is a relatively standard and safe procedure, some potential complications can occur.
These include:
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Nerve damage
- Infection
- Prolonged bleeding
- Dry sockets
Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any of these complications after your wisdom teeth removal.
How do you get rid of numbness after wisdom teeth removal?
If you’re looking for ways to get rid of numbness after wisdom teeth removal, there are a few things you can do.
1. Wait
First, waiting until the anesthesia has worn off completely before eating or drinking anything is important. This will help avoid any complications that could prolong the numbness. Additionally, take it easy for the first day or two after your procedure.
2. Chill and put ice on the area with swelling
Avoid strenuous activity and opt for ice packs overheat to manage any swelling.
3. Maintain good oral hygiene
Finally, clean your mouth by gently brushing your teeth and rinsing with salt water.
4. Vitamin B complex
You can also take a vitamin B complex supplement, which has been shown to help with nerve pain.
5. Magnesium
Magnesium is another supplement that can help with nerve pain.
6. Essential oils
A few essential oils have been shown to be effective for nerve pain. These include lavender oil, rosemary oil, and chamomile oil. Add a few drops of the oil to a diffuser or apply it topically to the area of numbness.
7. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another treatment option that is effective for nerve pain.
8. Massage therapy
Massage therapy can also help to relieve nerve pain.
9. Alpha-Lipoic-Acid
Alpha-Lipoic-Acid is a supplement that is effective for nerve pain.
10. Microsurgical nerve repair
In some cases, the numbness may be caused by damage to the nerve. If this is the case, your dentist may recommend microsurgical nerve repair. This is a surgery that is performed to repair the damaged nerve.
If you experience prolonged numbness after your wisdom teeth removal, speak with your dentist. A few things can be done to help relieve the pain and get rid of the numbness.
How do you know if you have nerve damage after wisdom teeth?
If you experience numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in your lips, gums, teeth, or chin after removing your wisdom teeth, it may be a sign of nerve damage. This damage is usually temporary and will resolve itself within a few months. However, it may be permanent if the numbness persists for longer than six months.
Will nerve damage heal after wisdom teeth removal?
In most cases, nerve damage caused by wisdom teeth removal is temporary and will heal on its own within a few months. However, it may be permanent if the numbness persists for longer than six months.
Talk to your dentist or oral surgeon if you’re concerned about nerve damage after wisdom teeth removal. They can help determine if the numbness is due to nerve damage or another factor.
Final thoughts
Wisdom teeth removal is widespread, and most people experience post-operative numbness. In most cases, the numbness will dissipate within a few hours. However, in some cases where the numbness may last a little longer. If you experience prolonged numbness after your wisdom teeth removal, speak with your dentist.
