Expert: Steven C. Scherr, D.D.S. - 7/29/2006

Question
I have impacted wisdom teeth on the right side of my mouth.  I had the 2 on the left side removed some time ago.  They were all supposed to come out, but my dentist decided I didn't need to see an oral surgeon, he could do it all in his office, and then it took 3 1/2 hours to get the 2 on the left out... so he decided not to do the other side. Crazy, I know, but true.
Anyway, due to a lack of dental insurance directly after that incident I have had to wait on the other side. The top wisdom tooth has pushed it's way out and for the most part isn't really bothering me.  The bottom tooth is completely impacted and from the x-rays looks sideways.  Ok, so here is my question:  I have been having numbness and tingling in my chin, gums and bottom (center) teeth for about a week and it is not subsiding, is there anyway that the wisdom tooth could be causing this?
I am a 29 year old female.  I recently had a CAT Scan that was normal, so I don't think I am having a stroke or anything.  
I really appreciate your time. Thanks.

Answer
Ellie,

I suppose it is possible for a lower wisdom tooth to grow into the nerve trunk and cause tingling and numbness.  I do not know of any reports of that having been the case though.  If this were to happen, the tingling and numbness would be present on one side of the face.  It would not cross the midline of the chin, gums, or teeth.

It is important to have a professional evaluation from a dentist or oral surgeon.  This will include an xray and/or scan of your jaws to be sure there is not a tumor, bone fracture, or other pathology present.  A CAT scan of the skull to rule out stroke is not a suitable substitute.

Ellie, I wish you well.

Steve