Help! I have headaches after my extraction

Question:

I had an extraction about a week ago on tooth #17. Since the extraction, I have been having very bad headaches and ringing in my ears. What is causing this and how can I make it stop??

Answer:

Several problems can come into play when extracting a third molar.  Several key anatomical landmarks (including nerves, muscles, blood vessels, etc) in the area of the third molar make this extraction particularly more complicated then extraction of other teeth.  What you are describing sounds as if you might have damage to a nerve, specifically the auriculotemporal nerve (a branch of cranial nerve V3), during the extraction.  Usually, any issue with this nerve, can cause a tingling or irregular sensation in the areas of the jaw, ears, or even cause headaches.

The good news is that damage to the nerve usually heals.  However, this process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of damage to the nerve.  For now, continue to take the pain medication that the dentist probably prescribed you.  Make sure the pain medication is a NSAID like Ibuprofen.  If you need more, call your dentist for a refill or pick some up at your local store.  Also, placing a warm cloth or heating pad over the area can help decrease the pain.

If the problem doesn’t go away after a couple of more weeks, return to the dentist for further examination.

Hope this helps and good luck!