Wisdom Teeth Removal - Risks and Complications

    Numbness

    Occasionally, nerves near the impacted teeth that supply feeling to      the gums, teeth, tongue, chin, cheeks and lips are injured.  This can cause numbness and tingling.  Usually, the nerve will repair and regenerate itself within a short period of time.  In few cases, the numbness is permanent.  

    Infection

    An infection is not a complication that is very common.  Most of the time it can be treated with antibiotics or by draining the infection.  

    Dry Socket    

    The healing process can be delayed if the blood clot that covered the socket dissolves or is washed away.  The occurrence of this will expose the bone making the patient susceptible to constant, throbbing pain.  This can be easily treated with a dressing.  

    Note that clove oil when mixed with vegetable oil in a 1-to-1 ratio can be dripped into the sockets to reduce pain.  Clove oil can be obtained at certain pharmacies or Natural Health stores.

    Sinus Problems

    Rarely, because the sinus cavity is near the upper wisdom teeth, the removal of these teeth can open the sinus cavity.  The sinus usually heals, but if the problem persists, further treatment maybe needed. 

    Weakening of the Jaw

    In some cases,  the removal of an impacted tooth can weaken the jaw.  This is a very rare occurrence.  The effects of this is that it can make the jaw more susceptible to fracture.