03/DENTAL DECODE: MYTH#2- Can Tooth Extraction Cause Vision Loss? by Dr. Gauri Agarwal

 "Tooth Out, Sight Gone? Nope."

For generations, a persistent myth has caused unnecessary fear among dental patients especially when it comes to removing upper teeth.

Let's set the record straight:

👉 There is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Tooth extraction does NOT cause vision loss


🔍 Where Did This Myth Come From?

This belief is especially passed down through word of mouth.

One reason the myth persists is because upper teeth, especially upper molars, are close to the sinuses, and any post-extraction discomfort (like swelling or facial pain) can feel like it’s affecting the eyes.

But the idea of direct nerve or vision damage? Let’s look at the science👇


🧠 How Are Teeth and Eyes Connected?

Actually, They Aren’t!

Some people believe that pulling out an upper tooth can affect your eyesight — but that’s not true.

Let’s explain it in a simple way:

🦷 Your Teeth

👁️ Your Eyes

  • Controlled by the trigeminal nerve (a big nerve in your face)
  • Controlled by the optic nerve (the nerve for vision)
  • Located in your upper jaw
  • Located in your eyes and brain
  • Helps you feel pain or pressure in your teeth and gums
  • 0Sends images from your eyes to your brain so you can see
Not connected to the eyes at all     ✅ No link to your teeth

Even though your upper teeth are close to your eyes and sinuses, they are controlled by completely different nerves

So don’t worry—taking out a tooth will not affect your eyesight.


Symptoms like Facial swelling near the cheek or eye, Mild pressure near the eye after upper tooth removal, Sinus-related discomfort are temporary and not related to your vision. Dentists may advise rest or medication, but eyesight is never at risk during or after routine tooth extraction.


💬Thoughts from a Dentist

Dental anxiety is understandable, but misinformation only makes it worse. Believing in outdated myths can delay important treatments and risk your oral health.

💡 Trust science. Trust your dentist. Protect your smile.

If you’ve been avoiding treatment due to fear, speak openly with your dentist they can explain every step of the procedure and ease your concerns.


📞 Have Questions?

Feel free to drop your concerns in the comments. I'm here to make dentistry safer, clearer, and myth-free.






Sincerely,
Dr. Gauri Agarwal
Dental Surgeon

Comments

  1. How to deal with patients who are more influenced by quakes and then comes to you with their own list of misconceptions

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Respectfully listen to their concerns, then calmly clarify misconceptions with simple, evidence-based explanations. Focus on educating, not arguing, to build trust and guide informed decisions

      Delete

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