Times When You May Need Nerves Removed from Your Jaw
Posted on 2/3/2025 by Djawdan Center
Have you ever experienced a toothache that just won't quit, or a persistent tingling sensation in your jaw? These could be signs of a problem with the nerves in your jaw, and in some cases, nerve removal may be necessary.
While the thought of oral surgery might seem daunting, it's important to understand that nerve removal is a safe and effective procedure that can help relieve pain and restore your oral health. In this article, we'll explore the different situations where nerve removal might be recommended, the procedure itself, and what you can expect during recovery.
What is Nerve Removal?
Nerve removal, also known as neurectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged or diseased nerve from the jaw. This is typically done when the nerve is causing pain, numbness, or other problems that cannot be resolved with other treatments.
Why Would I Need a Nerve Removed?
There are several reasons why your oral surgeon might recommend nerve removal. Some of the most common reasons include:
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Trigeminal Neuralgia: This is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face. It can cause severe, stabbing pain that feels like an electric shock.
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Postherpetic Neuralgia: This is a complication of shingles that can cause chronic pain in the affected area.
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Trauma: Damage to the nerves in the jaw can occur due to an injury, such as a car accident or a fall.
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Dental Procedures: In some cases, nerve removal may be necessary during other dental procedures, such as wisdom tooth extraction or dental implant placement.
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Facial Tamara: This is a rare condition that causes uncontrollable muscle spasms in the face.
What Happens During Nerve Removal Surgery?
The specific details of your nerve removal surgery will vary depending on the location and severity of the nerve damage. However, the general process is as follows:
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Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia so that you are asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
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Incision: Your oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gum tissue to access the affected nerve.
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Nerve Removal: The damaged portion of the nerve will be carefully removed.
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Closure: The incision will be closed with sutures.
Recovery from Nerve Removal Surgery
After your surgery, you will likely experience some pain and swelling. Your oral surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage these symptoms. You may also need to eat a soft diet for a few days while your mouth heals.
Most people recover fully from nerve removal surgery within a few weeks. However, it is important to follow your oral surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
Seeking Help from an Oral Surgeon
If you are experiencing pain or other problems in your jaw, it is important to see an oral surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. They will be able to determine if nerve removal is the right option for you and will discuss the procedure in detail.
Remember, nerve removal is a safe and effective procedure that can help relieve pain and restore your oral health. By understanding the reasons why nerve removal might be necessary and what to expect during the procedure, you can make an informed decision about your treatment options.
Dental Blog - Annapolis, MD • Djawdan Center Dr. Kian Djawdan has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Click to read out latest blog posts. Djawdan Center for Implant and Restorative Dentistry, 133 Defense Highway STE 210, Annapolis, MD 21401 ~ (410) 266-7645 ~ smileannapolis.com ~ 3/10/2025 ~ Page Terms:Dental Implants Annapolis MD ~
Have you ever experienced a toothache that just won't quit, or a persistent tingling sensation in your jaw? These could be signs of a problem with the nerves in your jaw, and in some cases, nerve removal may be necessary.