It is not normal for your teeth to go numb. This is usually a sign of a bigger problem. In contrast, it is not uncommon for your arm to go numb if it has been in one position for a long time. Legs can go numb if they have been crossed for a while as well. A numb tooth, however, is not common and requires immediate attention.
Why a Numb Tooth is a Concern
Your teeth are alive and they contain blood vessels and nerves like the rest of your organs. If your tooth is numb, it is most likely a symptom of a bigger problem. A numb tooth could indicate that the tooth is not receiving the blood and nutrients it needs to stay alive. Your tooth could go numb temporarily if you have incurred an injury to your face. This scenario is an anomaly though. If your tooth is numb, you should take action immediately to determine if there is a bigger dental issue.
Your tooth may be dying, or already dead if it is numb. This could be a result of years of poor dental hygiene. For instance, if you have an untreated cavity, eventually it will affect the pulp of the tooth. If the inside of your tooth becomes infected, the tooth can die. If this is the case, you may experience a sharp toothache and possibly a numb tooth.
Schedule Your Next Appointment if You Have a Numb Tooth
Call our office to get treatment for your numb tooth. While you may have ignored other warning signs in your mouth, do not ignore a numb tooth. It is not normal to have a numb tooth. We want to help you not only get the feeling back in your tooth, but also restore your teeth and improve your smile.
Dental Blog | Dentist Salem, OR | Fairmount Dental Center Fairmount Dental Center has created this dental blog to help patients and the community. Click to learn more about dental procedures, home care and more! Fairmount Dental Center, 1524 Commercial St. SE, Salem, OR 97302-4310 / (503) 362-8364 / fairmountdentalcenter.com / 1/20/2025 / Key Phrases: dentist Salem OR /