Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, often necessary for issues like impaction, pain, or infection. Local anesthesia is routinely used to manage pain during extraction, ensuring patient comfort. This temporary numbness is an expected part of the post-procedure experience.
Understanding Numbing Duration
After wisdom teeth removal, the numbness from local anesthesia typically lasts for a few hours, with a general range of 1 to 8 hours. The sensation usually returns gradually, often beginning with a tingling feeling as the anesthetic effects diminish. It is normal for different areas of the mouth to regain feeling at varying times.
Factors Affecting Numbness
Several elements influence how long numbness persists after wisdom teeth removal. The specific type of anesthetic used plays a significant role; for instance, Lidocaine typically provides numbness for 1 to 4 hours, whereas Bupivacaine can extend this effect to 8 to 12 hours. The dosage administered also contributes, with higher doses or more concentrated solutions potentially leading to longer-lasting numbness.
The precise location of the injection is another factor, as anesthesia given near larger nerves, like the inferior alveolar nerve, tends to last longer due to slower diffusion. Individual patient metabolism also influences how quickly the body processes and eliminates the anesthetic; faster metabolisms may result in shorter numbness, while slower metabolisms might extend the effects. Other factors such as age, gender, body mass index, and smoking habits can also influence the duration of local anesthesia.
When Numbness Persists
While numbness is expected, prolonged numbness can occur. If numbness persists beyond 24 to 48 hours, contact your oral surgeon or dentist. This extended numbness could indicate nerve involvement, such as irritation or, in rare cases, damage. Temporary nerve issues appear in about 0.5% to 5% of cases, while lasting damage is less common, affecting less than 1%.
Nerve damage, known as paresthesia, can result in persistent numbness, tingling, or altered sensations in areas like the lips, chin, or tongue. The inferior alveolar nerve and lingual nerve are most commonly affected during lower wisdom tooth extractions due to their proximity. Early identification and communication with your dental provider are important, as prompt intervention may improve recovery outcomes.
Navigating Post-Procedure Sensation
While experiencing numbness, it is important to take precautions to prevent accidental injury to the mouth. Patients should avoid biting their cheek, tongue, or lips, which can occur inadvertently due to the lack of sensation. It is also advisable to avoid eating until the numbness has completely worn off to prevent biting down on the numb tissues. Eating soft foods and being cautious with hot beverages are also recommended during this period. Following all post-operative instructions from your oral surgeon is important for a smooth recovery process.