Bilateral lingual nerve anesthesia following mandibular third molar extractions

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Neurology
• Dental Anesthesia

Background:

• The lingual nerve is susceptible to injury during mandibular third molar surgery.
• Permanent anesthesia following such procedures is uncommon.
• Bilateral lingual nerve anesthesia has not been previously documented.

Observation:

• A patient experienced bilateral lingual nerve anesthesia post-mandibular third molar extraction.
• The anesthesia affected both sides of the tongue sensation.

Findings:

• This presentation represents the first reported case of bilateral lingual nerve anesthesia after third molar surgery.
• Potential etiologies for this rare bilateral injury are discussed.

Implications:

• Highlights the risk of bilateral lingual nerve injury, even if rare.
• May prompt a review of surgical techniques and nerve protection strategies.
• Emphasizes the importance of thorough neurological assessment post-third molar extraction.