Had Injection To Numb Area For Molar Extraction. What Causes Sudden Mouth Drooping?

Posted on Sun, 24 Nov 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 24 Nov 2013 Answered on

Fri, 13 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : one month ago i had a molar extracted. 2 painful injections to numb the area. now i notice that side of my mouth is drooping making me look very aged suddenly. please help. by the way.. i had a bad sore in that corner of my mouth for one week after the procedure.

Answered by Dr. Anshumala Singh (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Indicates facial nerve damage. Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome. Thanks for sharing your concern. Drooping occurs due to damage to facial nerve. You might also experience altered taste,facial pull towards one side,Aged appearance etc. Please do not worry, It is seen in some of the cases of molar extraction but it is a temporary state and patient recovers within two to three weeks, as the nerve regenerates. Therefore please note it could be a transient state and the damaged nerve might recover soon depending upon its severity. Severity of damage can be checked by an MRI test. Keeping the time duration in view I would suggest you to meet your dentist soon so that clinical evaluation can be done. Depending upon its severity (if required) a steroid and antiviral drug could be administered. Please let me know for any further doubts. Thanks. Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj