Feeling numb in your mouth can be a strange sensation, but many have had to experience this at the dentist following specific procedures. However, a sensation of numbness in the mouth without dental anesthesia is much less common. If you have ever experienced weird sensations within the mouth or complete numbness within the mouth for an unknown reason, the first step is to immediately see your primary physician or dentist so that proper diagnosis and treatment can be initiated. They may recommend testing such as allergy tests or blood tests, or make a referral to a specialist if deemed necessary.
According to Colgate Professional, there are many different conditions that could result in numbness in the mouth, including:
- Nutrient Deficiency: A nutrient deficiency, such as low levels of calcium (hypocalcemia), may result in numbness and tingling within or around the mouth or other parts of the body. Individuals with low calcium may also experience muscle pain and spasms.
- Vitamin Deficiency: Deficiencies in vitamins like B12, D, or folate could cause oral numbness.
- Low Blood Sugar: According to the Cleveland Clinic, low levels of sugar (hypoglycemia) may cause numbness or tingling within or around the mouth. Low blood sugar can be caused by diabetes treatment, medications, malnutrition, certain diseases, or hormone deficiencies, for instance.
- Multiple Sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and may subsequently cause numbness in the face and other parts of the body.
- Psychological Conditions: Individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, or other psychological conditions may experience numbness in the mouth, according to a study published by the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research.
- Nerve Injury: According to the Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, injury to the inferior alveolar nerve, which is often anesthetized during dental procedures, may cause an abnormal oral sensation or numbness.
- Allergic Reaction: Allergies to certain substancess may cause numbness or tingling within the mouth.
- Seizures: Seizures may be a cause of oral tingling or numbness, according to the National Institutes of Health.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome: Tingling in the mouth is a common symptom of burning mouth syndrome, along with loss of taste, dry mouth, and burning sensations. The specific cause is not yet known.
- Oral Cancer: Oral numbness may be a sign of oral cancer, which is often related to alcohol or tobacco use, or human papilloma virus (HPV) infection.
Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor or dentist will provide you with adequate treatment to address your specific condition.
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
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