I experience mild numbness and also sharp pain where the wisdom tooth was removed.Why is this happening?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 20-year-old female. My height is 5'5" and my weight is 140 lbs. I experience mild numbness and sharp pain where the wisdom tooth was removed two years ago, thereby making it hard to eat. Why is this happening?

Answered by Dr. Senthil Kumar. K

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Possible reasons for the numbness and sharp pain could be:

Any root fragment leftover while removing the tooth. b) Damage to the second molar tooth (tooth just before the wisdom tooth) during the process of surgical removal. c) Cavities (decay) in the upper wisdom tooth or lower molar tooth. d) Any injury to the gums in the wisdom tooth removed area. e) Damage to any nerve fiber during the surgical procedure.

Investigations to be done

a) Advised IOPA (Intra Oral Periapical Radiograph) x-ray for the last molar tooth and OPG (panoramic radiograph) x-ray for the full mouth. b) The x-rays will show if there are any root fragments leftover or if there is any problem in the adjacent tooth. c) Gently tap the second molar tooth with a mouth mirror handle or any other blunt instrument and check if the pain increases. If so, then the problem is with the second molar tooth.

Treatment plan

In case of gum injury, apply Chlorhexidine ointment for three days, thrice a day, with a cotton pellet. If it is confirmed that a root fragment is left over, or if it is a second molar problem, you need to visit a dentist in person.

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Answered by Dr. Senthil Kumar. K

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team

October 28, 2014

July 2, 2024

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Companion

Wisdom Tooth Removal Pain and Numbness Companion

How it works

Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure, but sometimes complications like pain and numbness can occur even years later. Here are possible reasons for your symptoms.

Tooth
Removal

Root
Fragments

Molar
Damage

Tooth
Decay

Gum
Injury

Nerve
Damage

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Dr. Senthil Kumar. K

Dentistry

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