Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, often necessary to address issues like impaction or crowding. Following this surgery, experiencing numbness in the mouth is a normal and temporary part of the recovery process. This sensation primarily results from the local anesthetic used to manage comfort during the procedure and reduce pain afterward. Understanding what to expect regarding this numbness can help individuals navigate their post-operative period with greater ease.
Typical Numbness Timeline
Immediately after wisdom teeth removal, local anesthesia causes significant numbness. Common anesthetics like lidocaine typically induce numbness lasting two to six hours. Another anesthetic, bupivacaine, can provide longer pain control, sometimes extending up to eight or nine hours. For most, sensation begins returning within three to five hours, often signaled by tingling or slight discomfort. Full sensation gradually improves as the body processes and eliminates the numbing agents.
Factors Influencing Numbness Duration
The duration of numbness after wisdom teeth removal is influenced by several elements, including the specific type and quantity of local anesthetic administered. Different numbing agents have varying durations of action.
The complexity of the extraction procedure also plays a significant role. More involved surgical removals, such as those for deeply impacted wisdom teeth, may require more anesthetic or can cause greater temporary irritation to nearby nerves, extending the period of numbness.
An individual’s unique metabolism and body chemistry also affect how quickly the numbing medication is processed and eliminated from the system. People with a faster metabolism often experience a quicker return of sensation. The number of teeth extracted can impact the overall amount of anesthetic used.
Additionally, if the wisdom tooth was in close proximity to major nerves, such as the inferior alveolar nerve or the lingual nerve, the numbness may take longer to resolve. Swelling in the surgical area can also exert pressure on these nerves, contributing to prolonged numbness.
Navigating Daily Activities While Numb
Exercising caution is important while the mouth remains numb to prevent accidental injuries.
- Postpone eating until numbness subsides to avoid biting your cheek, tongue, or lip.
- When ready to eat, select soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, or pureed soups during the initial 24 hours.
- Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods and chew on the side opposite the extraction site.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water; avoid hot, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours.
- Refrain from using straws for at least one week, as the sucking action can dislodge the blood clot, potentially leading to a dry socket.
- Gentle oral hygiene, such as careful brushing, can resume after 24 hours, but avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting.
- Apply ice packs to the face in 20-minute intervals to help reduce swelling and alleviate nerve pressure.
- Rest and avoid strenuous physical activity for at least five days to support healing.
When Numbness Lingers or Changes
While temporary numbness is a normal part of recovery, persistent numbness beyond the typical timeframe can signal nerve irritation or, rarely, damage. This altered sensation, known as paresthesia, may present as ongoing numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling. It commonly affects areas like the lower lip, chin, or tongue, depending on which nerves, such as the inferior alveolar or lingual nerve, were involved.
If numbness continues for more than 24 to 48 hours, or if sensation suddenly changes, contact your oral surgeon or dentist. Prompt evaluation helps identify the cause and determine the best course of action.
Most prolonged numbness resolves naturally as nerves heal, though this can take weeks or months. In rare circumstances, these changes can be long-lasting or permanent.