Symptoms of Nerve Damage After Dental Work

Nerve damage after dental work can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected areas. These symptoms may arise immediately after the procedure or develop gradually over time. Understanding the types of nerve damage and their causes can help in recognizing the signs early. Nerve injuries often result from dental procedures like extractions, implants, or root canals.

The following page will also explain how nerve damage is diagnosed, treatment options, and potential long-term effects. If you experience any of these symptoms after dental work, a Washington dental malpractice lawyer can help you understand your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries.

Recognizing Symptoms of Nerve Damage After Dental Work

Nerve damage from dental procedures can present various symptoms. Common signs include:

• Numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheek
• Tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation
• Sharp, shooting pain or a burning sensation
• Difficulty moving the tongue
• Changes in taste
• Drooping of facial muscles

If you notice any of these symptoms after dental work, seek medical attention immediately. 

Types of Nerve Damage After Dental Work

Nerve damage from dental procedures can involve different types of nerves, each leading to specific issues:

• Inferior alveolar nerve damage: Causes numbness or tingling in the lower lip, chin, and lower teeth.
• Lingual nerve damage: Affects the tongue, leading to numbness, loss of taste, or tingling sensations.
• Mental nerve damage: Results in numbness or discomfort in the lower lip and chin area.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures appropriate treatment and helps in documenting the injury for potential legal action. 

Common Dental Procedures that Cause Nerve Injuries

Nerve injuries can result from various dental procedures. Understanding the risks associated with these procedures can help you recognize and address potential nerve damage.

Extractions

Tooth extractions, particularly wisdom tooth extraction, can lead to nerve damage. The close proximity of the nerves to the extraction site increases the risk of injury. Symptoms may include numbness or tingling in the lips, chin, or tongue.

Implants

Dental implants involve drilling into the jawbone to place a metal post, which can sometimes result in nerve injury. The inferior alveolar nerve is particularly at risk. Symptoms might include persistent pain, numbness, or difficulty in chewing.

Root Canals

Root canal treatments aim to remove infected tissue from inside a tooth. However, the tools used can occasionally damage nearby nerves. Symptoms of nerve damage from root canals include a burning sensation, loss of sensation, or altered taste.

Fillings and Crowns

During the placement of fillings or crowns, drilling close to the nerve can sometimes cause injury. Symptoms may include sensitivity, pain, or numbness in the affected tooth and surrounding areas.

Orthodontic Treatments

Braces and other orthodontic treatments can exert pressure on teeth and surrounding structures. In some cases, this pressure can affect nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling sensations.

Periodontal Surgery

Gum surgeries to treat periodontal disease can sometimes damage nerves in the gums or jaw. Symptoms of nerve damage from periodontal surgery include persistent pain, numbness, or unusual sensations in the gums, lips, or cheeks.

What to Expect if You Are Suffering Nerve Damage After Dental Work

If you suspect nerve damage following dental work, a doctor will perform a thorough evaluation to diagnose the condition. The diagnostic process typically includes the following steps:

• Medical history review
• Physical examination
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs
• Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies

Treating nerve damage resulting from dental work involves various approaches, depending on the severity and type of injury. Here are some common treatment options:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Nerve blocks and injections
• Surgery
• Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or biofeedback

If nerve damage after dental work goes untreated, it can lead to permanent nerve damage and several long-term effects that can significantly impact your quality of life. Here are some potential complications:

• Chronic pain
• Permanent numbness
• Muscle weakness and atrophy
• Loss of taste
• Functional impairments, such as difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Emotional and psychological impact, such as anxiety, depression, and a reduced quality of life

If you experience symptoms of nerve damage after dental treatment, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Also, you may be eligible to pursue compensation. Many personal injury lawyers offer free case consultations. During the consultation, you can discuss your case and learn how they can help you.

How a Lawyer Can Help With Your Dental Malpractice Case

If you suffer from nerve damage after dental work, a lawyer can manage the complexities of your dental malpractice case while you recover. A dental malpractice lawyer can provide assistance in several ways, fighting to collect the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

The services a dental malpractice lawyer can provide you include the following:

• Case evaluation
• Gathering evidence
• Identifying expert witnesses
• Filing legal documents
• Negotiating settlements
• Representing you in court

During your free initial consultation, a dental malpractice lawyer can explain your legal rights and options. They can build your claim to recover damages for your losses, such as:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium
• Future medical costs
• Rehabilitation expenses
• Loss of earning capacity

To succeed in a dental malpractice case, you and your lawyer must prove the following elements of negligence:

• Duty of care: The dentist was required to provide a standard level of care expected of a reasonably competent dental professional under similar circumstances.
• Breach of duty: The dentist failed in this duty by acting negligently.
• Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injury.
• Damages: You suffered damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses.

Proving these elements requires thorough documentation and often the testimony of expert witnesses. A dental malpractice lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case to establish negligence.

Keep in mind that time is limited. For Washington, you generally have three years from the date of the incident or one year from the discovery to file a lawsuit, per RCW § 4.16.350. In Colorado, you generally have two years from the date of the injury or two years from the discovery under CO. Rev. Stat. § 13-80-102.

Get Help from Jackman Law Firm Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of nerve damage following dental work, see your doctor for medical assistance. Then, call Jackman Law Firm for a free case consultation.