Atlanta, GA
A 43-year-old female asked:

Having toothache bad i need teeth pulled and wisdom teeth pulled upper n lower, im scared of dentist afraid it will cause facial nerve damage or be paralyzed in face from having teeth pulled whats the chances im 43?

3 doctor answers3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Theodore Davantzis
Dentistry 42 years experience
The chances of nerve damage are extremely low if not negligible. The chances of infections and sepsis from not treating those rotten teeth is much greater. You've neglected your health for a long time and now you don't have much of a choice but to be treated. Failure to treat will only make things worse.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Bennett Machanic
Neurology 47 years experience
Agree with Dr Devantsis, as you run significant infection risks, and since the teeth are near brain, such disasters as cavernous sinus thrombosis, brain abscess, etc., are conceivable. Believe that dental anesthesia can be accomplished via nitrous, or local numbing, or perhaps both. It is your choice, but wonder if counseling might help you achieve more emotional comfort.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Arnold Malerman
Orthodontics 55 years experience
Dr. Davantzis is absolutely correct. Infection will adversely affect other organ systems, and can result in serious consequences, Specialist Oral Surgeons have at least 13 years of post-secondary school training and years of experience treating problems like ours. Treatment risk:: Statistically very low. Reward very high. Not treating infection can do permanent harm.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jun 6, 2023

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