Cant Feel Bottom Lip After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many people undergo. While it is done to prevent any future dental problems, it can come with some side effects, such as numbness or tingling in the mouth. One of the most common side effects of wisdom teeth removal is not being able to feel the bottom lip. This can be alarming for those who experience it, but it is usually temporary and will go away on its own. In this article, we will discuss why this happens and what you can do to alleviate the symptoms.
Why Can't You Feel Your Bottom Lip After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
During wisdom teeth removal, the dentist or oral surgeon must make an incision in the gums and remove the teeth. This procedure can cause trauma to the nerves that run through the area, leading to numbness or tingling in the mouth. The nerves that control the sensation in the lower lip and chin run through a small opening in the jawbone, which is close to where the wisdom teeth are located. If these nerves are damaged during the procedure, it can result in numbness or tingling in the mouth.
Another reason why you may not be able to feel your bottom lip after wisdom teeth removal is due to swelling. Swelling is a common side effect of any surgical procedure, and in the case of wisdom teeth removal, it can put pressure on the nerves in the area, causing numbness or tingling.
How Long Does It Take for the Feeling to Return?
The good news is that in most cases, the numbness or tingling in the mouth is temporary and will go away on its own. The length of time it takes for the feeling to return can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the nerve damage. Some people may regain feeling within a few hours after the procedure, while others may take several weeks or even months to fully recover.
If you are experiencing numbness or tingling in your mouth after wisdom teeth removal, it is important to be patient and give your body time to heal. You can also try some of the following tips to help alleviate the symptoms:
1. Apply Ice
To reduce swelling and alleviate some of the pressure on the nerves in the area, apply ice to the affected area for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
2. Take Pain Medication
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate the symptoms.
3. Eat Soft Foods
To avoid putting pressure on the affected area, stick to soft foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt until the feeling in your mouth returns.
4. Avoid Smoking
Smoking can delay the healing process and cause further damage to the nerves in the area. If you are a smoker, it is best to avoid smoking until the feeling in your mouth returns.
When to See a Dentist
If the numbness or tingling in your mouth does not go away after several weeks, it is important to see your dentist or oral surgeon. They may recommend further treatment, such as medication or physical therapy, to help alleviate the symptoms.
It is also important to seek medical attention if you experience any other symptoms such as severe pain, bleeding, or fever, as these can be signs of a more serious complication.
Conclusion
While it can be alarming to not be able to feel your bottom lip after wisdom teeth removal, it is usually a temporary side effect that will go away on its own. By being patient and following the tips in this article, you can help alleviate the symptoms and speed up the healing process. If the numbness or tingling in your mouth does not go away after several weeks, be sure to see your dentist or oral surgeon for further treatment.