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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Unilateral facial nerve paralysis following an infected lower third molar
M A Al-Muharraqi1, E C O'Sullivan
1Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, Dental & Maxillofacial Centre, Royal Medical Services, Bahrain Defence Force Hospital, Bahrain. mohammed@al-muharraqi.com
Abstract:
The authors report the case of a 35-year-old Arab man who presented with unilateral facial nerve palsy in the presence of an infected lower third molar. The paralysis occurred within hours of the development of a left-sided facial swelling. Surgical removal of the tooth and drainage of the abscess produced significant improvement in facial nerve function, and total resolution occurred prior to clinical follow-up 10 days later. The authors discuss the aetiology of this hemifacial paralysis and its significance as a clinical sign of third molar odontogenic infection.
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