Numbness after jaw surgery is a common experience for many patients, ranging from a subtle tingling sensation to a complete absence of feeling. While altered sensation can be concerning, it is often a temporary side effect and part of the body’s healing process.
Understanding Post-Surgical Numbness
Numbness following jaw surgery occurs due to the close proximity of nerves to the surgical sites. Procedures like orthognathic surgery often involve manipulating the jawbones, which can impact branches of the trigeminal nerve, a major nerve responsible for sensation in the face. The inferior alveolar nerve, which provides feeling to the lower teeth, gums, lip, and chin, is commonly affected during lower jaw surgery. The mental nerve, a branch of the inferior alveolar nerve supplying the lower lip and chin, can also be impacted. In some cases, the lingual nerve, which provides sensation to the tongue, may experience temporary effects.
Patients might experience various types of sensory alterations. Paresthesia describes abnormal sensations like tingling, prickling, or a “pins and needles” feeling. Dysesthesia refers to unpleasant, abnormal sensations, which can sometimes include pain. Anesthesia denotes a complete loss of sensation in an area, while hypoesthesia is a reduced sensation, and hyperesthesia is an increased sensitivity. These nerve responses can stem from stretching, bruising, or direct injury to the nerve during surgery.
The Natural Recovery Process
Nerve recovery after jaw surgery is a gradual process, with sensation returning over time, often spanning weeks or months. While some individuals may notice improvement within weeks, for many, sensation slowly returns over a period of six to nine months. In some cases, recovery can extend up to a year or longer. The initial phase often involves complete numbness, followed by tingling or prickling sensations as nerves begin to regenerate and transmit signals.
Factors such as the extent of the initial nerve impact and individual healing capabilities can influence the recovery timeline. Older patients, for instance, may experience a longer recovery period or a higher likelihood of persistent altered sensation. While most patients regain significant sensation, a small percentage may experience some degree of long-term or permanent altered sensation, though this does not affect facial movement. Patience is important during this recovery phase, as nerve regeneration is slow.
Approaches to Alleviate Numbness
While numbness after jaw surgery often resolves naturally, several approaches can support nerve healing and alleviate discomfort. Self-care practices play an important role in recovery. Gently massaging affected areas can help improve circulation and stimulate nerve regeneration, but this should be done with caution and after consulting your surgeon. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is also important to prevent complications like infection, which could hinder healing. Ensuring adequate nutrition, particularly consuming foods rich in B vitamins (such as B1, B6, and B12) and antioxidants, can support nerve health and regeneration.
Beyond self-care, healthcare providers may recommend professional therapies to aid in recovery. Specific facial exercises and physical therapy can help improve blood flow and nerve function, assisting in the return of sensation and muscle coordination. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units, which deliver mild electrical impulses, may be considered under medical guidance to stimulate nerves. Complementary therapies like acupuncture are explored for general nerve issues, but their effectiveness for post-jaw surgery numbness should be discussed with a medical professional.
Although there is no direct medication to reverse numbness, doctors may prescribe medications to manage nerve pain or discomfort during healing. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other pain relievers can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Any medication use, including vitamin supplements, should always be under the supervision of your healthcare provider to ensure safety and appropriateness for your recovery.
When to Seek Medical Advice
It is important to communicate regularly with your oral surgeon or healthcare provider during recovery. Contact your medical team if numbness persists beyond the expected timeline, especially if there is no noticeable improvement after several months. Worsening numbness or the development of new, concerning symptoms, such as severe pain accompanying the numbness, warrant immediate medical attention.
Numbness that significantly interferes with daily activities like eating, speaking, or facial expressions should also be reported. Seek prompt medical advice for any signs of infection, including:
- Persistent or increasing pain
- Swelling that does not subside
- Redness
- Pus or unusual discharge from the surgical site
- Fever
- Difficulty opening your mouth
Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.