Advertisement
question

Can Novocaine cause lingual nerve damage?

RealAge
RealAge
answer
Novocaine and lidocaine are numbing drugs injected into parts of the mouth to prevent pain during dental treatment. These drugs can make your tongue feel numb when they are injected into the lingual nerve, which controls the tongue.

Damage to the lingual nerve causes ongoing pain and numbness. In very rare cases, the injection itself can cause damage to the lingual nerve. However, in most cases, any damage is from the dental procedure, not the shot. Removing a wisdom tooth is the most common cause of lingual nerve damage, but it remains a rare complication. Talk to your doctor if you think you have lingual nerve damage. 

Continue Learning about Oral Health

3 simple steps to healthier teeth
3 simple steps to healthier teeth
You probably know how important daily oral hygiene is for the strength and health of your teeth and gums. But healthy gums and teeth are also good for...
Read More
What happens when I don't floss my teeth?
What happens when I don't floss my teeth?
A trip to the dentist isn’t complete without being scolded for not flossing every day. And even though you know you should, flossing doesn’t always ma...
Read More
Are Dental X-Rays a Health Risk?
Are Dental X-Rays a Health Risk?
If you're always looking for an excuse to cancel your dentist appointment for fear of another dental filling, radiation from dental x-rays might be an...
Read More
What is dental health?
What is dental health? Dental health refers to the care of the mouth, which includes the teeth and g...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.