i have a wisdom tooth underneath my gum on the lower left side . I went years ago , to an oral surgeon who said it was very close to a facial nerve and i should put hot packs on my jaw. the pain went away but now its back, I have been putting hot packs, on my jaw, i see the dentist this week. im very nervous i dont want my face or jaw, or mouth to be numb what should i do?
Hi Dear, Welcome to Chat Doctor. Understanding your concern. Thanks for your query. This is very common condition when impacted tooth presses a nerve. This is the reason for pain. You should continue giving hot packs. Such impacted tooth should be removed otherwise they keep troubling you with on and off pain episodes. It requires very skillful and experienced oral surgeon as there is involvement of nerve. I would suggest you to consult oral surgeon (as there is already an appointment) for proper evaluation of condition. Doctor may take X-ray or CT scan to access the position of the tooth and may perform surgery under local anesthesia to remove the impacted tooth. For pain ibuprofen(if not allergic) or acetaminophen and do warm saline rinses. Hope your concern has been resolved. Best Wishes,