Bell’s Palsy?
QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
My best friend went to the dentist a few weeks ago and had 3 ½ hours of treatment and 4 shots of novocaine during this time period. She finally had to make the dentist quit and she was not able to handle the situation any longer. She had previously talked to the dentist and suggested possibly setting up 3 appts. The dentist insisted on completing the work or as much as she could take ( I think dollar signs got the best of him). Nevertheless, within 2 days her face has contorted and her speech is slurred. How long will this last and what will this condition due to her self esteem. She is quite embarrassed by her looks and is on the verge of tears all of the time. She is taking prednisone and one other that I dont remember the name of.
What can I do to help her?
ANSWER:
She should see a neurologist for an opinion to see if its Bells Palsy (a.k.a. Herpetic Facial Palsy), trauma from the injections, or something else.
Bells Palsy is more likely, and could have been triggered, but not caused, by the stress of the dental work. Its due to nerve damage from a herpes virus infection. In addition to prednisone, antiviral medications are warranted such as Zovirax, Famvir, and Volmax. Taking a multiple vitamin and 500mg of vitamin C is likely wise as well.
