Teeth at bone graft harvest site feels numb after 3 weeks is this normal?

Question

Hello goodnight, I did a bone graft surgery on march 22, Wednesday of this week will be approximately 3 weeks. The bone was harvested from my chin area for the maxillary sinus area of my mouth for 4dental implants. Ever since I did the surgery my lower front teeth has been numb, I can hardly feel them and it's very uncomfortable, I see my doctor tomorrow but I just want to know if this is normal or is it long term. Scared

Michael L. Nishime, DDS · Answer

It is not uncommon for patients to feel a "woody" feeling in their teeth or some paresthesia in the area after having bone taken from their chin. This will usually resolve itself but may take several months. I'm sure your dentist will monitor the situation, and make the appropriate treatment recommendations if the numbness persists beyond 6 months.

Michael Mazaheri, DDS · Answer

What you are describing is called paresthesia. Many times this condition will improve after several weeks, but sometimes can also be permanent. Unfortunately it is one of the risks of dental surgery procedure, but I would be optimistic that the sensation may return within 6 months to a year if reversible.

Teeth at bone graft harvest site feels numb after 3 weeks is this normal?

Answers (2)