“Unknown problem with jaw?”
The teeth on the bottom right side of my jaw are numb (tingly), and so is my chin and other areas of my neck and face; it’s actually spreading down my arm. I have a history of TIA as the result of an arterial dissection in 2012 and have also had stage 1 malignant melanoma that was cured after the amputation of my left great toe. No dental problems and my teeth are in good shape. I also am known to grind my teeth at night and I’m not wondering if I did it so much that I damaged a nerve. Any help is much appreciated.
Female | 41 years old
Complaint duration: 10
Medications: 81mg aspirin
5 Answers
Please see your dentist as you may be experiencing an abcessing tooth
First if you have a history of TIA and are concerned that may be the issue call 911 immediately. You should have an oral surgeon evaluate the cause of the paresthesia.
It's not uncommon to leave a root-tip if the complications "could be worse," but this is a very real possibility. I suggest that you get an appointment with an oral surgeon. The ER can't do anything for you. See your general dentist and get a a referral to see an oral surgeon.
First, follow up with your cancer team of physicians and dermatologist. Bruxism usually doesn’t cause jaw numbness, but if the physicians clear you, then follow up with an orofacial pain specialist.
I would have a neurologist evaluate you. It seems you have a nerve issue not related to grinding. If you can get your dentist to make a night guard to help with the grinding/clenching. If you can before you go to sleep, keep saying lips together teeth apart. It may help as well.
