Wisdom tooth nerve damage is a possible complication of wisdom tooth extraction. The mandibular nerve enters the back of the bone of the lower jaw. It travels through the mandibular canal just below the roots of the lower teeth and comes out to provide feeling to the lower lip. The mandibular nerve is also called the inferior alveolar nerve and the portion that comes out of the mandible and goes to the lower lip is called the mental nerve. It's all the same nerve but has different names in different areas.

          Wisdom tooth nerve damage can occur when a nerve is traumatized, crushed or completely cut. It's a big problem when the mandibular nerve is completely cut and this problem must be corrected with microneurosurgery. Unfortunately, very few dentists perform this procedure. The numbness is called parasthesia and fortunately, in most cases, the mandibular nerve recovers in about three to six months.

         You know that there's been Wisdom tooth nerve damage if full feeling does not return to the lower jaw and lips within a day. It is very important that you report the numbness to your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will evaluate your nerve function and monitor it to determine if any further procedures may be necessary. Some anaesthetics ( Septocaine ) can also cause numbness for a few weeks.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, our senior Georgia Dentist performs most of the wisdom tooth surgery and he takes great care, especially in the sectioning of a wisdom tooth, to avoid approaching the mandibular nerve. If you are concerned about Wisdom tooth nerve damage and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428 for an appointment.