Waking up from a dental procedure often involves a predictable period of numbness. However, when that tingling sensation lingers for days or weeks, it can become a source of significant anxiety. You deserve to understand what is happening and how to protect your rights during your recovery.
Recognizing lingual nerve trauma
The lingual nerve provides sensation to the front two-thirds of your tongue and the floor of your mouth. When this nerve suffers an injury, the primary symptom is a persistent loss of feeling or a change in taste.
Common signs of damage include the following:
- Constant tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation in the tongue
- A burning feeling that does not go away
- Inability to distinguish between hot and cold temperatures
- Difficulty eating or speaking
While many nerve injuries heal on their own within a few weeks or months, others are permanent and may require repair procedures and ongoing treatment options to manage pain.
Procedures linked to nerve injuries
Certain dental surgeries carry a higher risk of nerve contact due to the proximity of the lingual nerve to the surgical site. Various sources have found that third molar extractions are among the most frequent causes of these injuries.
Other common procedures include:
- Lower wisdom tooth extractions, especially for impacted teeth
- Dental implant placements in the lower jaw
- Administering local anesthetic injections
- Root canal treatments on lower molars
Dentists must follow standard protocols to minimize these risks.
The lasting impact and legal recovery
Nerve damage often extends beyond physical discomfort, affecting how you interact with the world. You might find it difficult to speak clearly, which can lead to social withdrawal or emotional distress.
If a dental professional failed to meet the accepted standard of care, you might be eligible for compensation. This legal process addresses medical bills, lost wages and the pain you endure. New York law generally requires you to file a dental malpractice claim within two years and six months of the incident (though there are exceptions).
While these injuries are a known risk or complication of certain procedures, they could still be the result of negligent care if there was a failure to meet the standard of care. Talking to an attorney about the details of a procedure and your legal options can be crucial in understanding the resources that may be available.