If your wisdom tooth is pressing on a nerve, you’ll likely experience intense, throbbing pain in the affected area. This pain may radiate to nearby teeth, your jaw, or even your ear—all of which can make it difficult to chew, speak, or open your mouth comfortably.
In some cases, you may also feel numbness or tingling in your lower lip, chin, or tongue. This can indicate nerve involvement and should be evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible.
Other signs that a wisdom tooth may be affecting a nerve include:
- Persistent pain that worsens over time
- Swelling or inflammation around the wisdom tooth
- Difficulty moving your jaw or opening your mouth fully
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
Because wisdom teeth are close to the inferior alveolar nerve, impacted or poorly positioned teeth can sometimes compress or irritate it. If left untreated, this can lead to long-term nerve damage.
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If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please don’t ignore them! A dental evaluation, including x-rays, can determine whether your wisdom tooth is pressing on a nerve. Schedule a consultation with your Scarborough dentist to discuss the best course of action for relief and treatment.