Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure many people undergo, often due to impaction or other complications. A normal and expected part of the recovery process involves temporary numbing of the mouth and surrounding areas. This numbing sensation helps manage discomfort during and immediately after the extraction. Understanding why this occurs and its typical duration can help manage expectations during the healing period.
Understanding Numbing and Its Duration
Numbing after wisdom teeth removal primarily occurs due to local anesthetics, which are medications that temporarily block nerve signals. These anesthetics work by preventing sodium ions from entering nerve cells, which stops the transmission of pain signals to the brain. This means that while you may still feel pressure or movement, you should not experience pain in the treated area.
The duration of numbing depends on the specific anesthetic used. Lidocaine typically provides numbing for 2 to 4 hours, Articaine for several hours, and Bupivacaine up to 8 hours. For lower jaw procedures, where a nerve block is used, numbness in the cheeks, lips, and tongue can extend for 12 to 24 hours.
Factors Influencing Numbing’s Duration
Several factors influence how long numbing lasts after wisdom teeth removal. Individual metabolism plays a role; people with a faster metabolism may find the anesthetic wears off more quickly. The amount of anesthetic administered and the specific injection site also impact the duration. For instance, a nerve block in the lower jaw often results in longer-lasting numbness compared to an injection targeting a single upper tooth.
The presence of vasoconstrictors, such as epinephrine, in the anesthetic solution significantly prolongs the numbing effect. Epinephrine works by constricting blood vessels, which slows the absorption of the anesthetic away from the injection site, allowing it to remain concentrated around the nerves for a longer period. This can increase the duration of local anesthesia by approximately 100% to 200% compared to anesthetics without epinephrine. The complexity of the extraction procedure can also influence how long numbness persists; more complex removals, especially of impacted teeth, may lead to longer numbing due to potential irritation of nearby nerves.
Navigating the Numb Period
While experiencing numbness after wisdom teeth removal, it is important to take precautions to prevent accidental injury to the numb areas. Since sensation is diminished, you might inadvertently bite your cheek, tongue, or lip. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.
Stick to soft, cool, or lukewarm foods and liquids during the initial numb period. Examples include yogurt, smoothies, pudding, applesauce, and soft soups. Avoid hot liquids until sensation returns to prevent accidental burns. Avoid drinking through a straw for several days, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot, potentially leading to dry socket.
When Numbness Lingers or Causes Concern
While temporary numbness is a normal part of recovery, persistent numbness or the presence of other concerning symptoms warrants contacting your oral surgeon or dentist. Numbness that lasts longer than 24 hours can be a sign of nerve involvement. If the numbness persists for several days or weeks, especially in areas like the lower lip, chin, tongue, or gums, it might indicate irritation or damage to nearby nerves, such as the inferior alveolar nerve or lingual nerve.
Symptoms that may accompany prolonged numbness and indicate a need for professional evaluation include tingling, a “pins and needles” sensation, altered taste, or difficulty moving the tongue or jaw. While nerve injuries are typically temporary and resolve over weeks to months, in rare cases, they can be long-lasting or permanent. Prompt communication with your dental provider allows for proper assessment and guidance, as early intervention can sometimes improve outcomes.