Nerve Repositioning
What Is Nerve Repositioning?
The inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin, may need to be moved in order to make room for the placement of dental implants in the lower jaw. A nerve repositioning procedure is limited to the lower jaw and may be indicated when teeth are missing in the area of the two back molars and/or second premolars. This procedure is considered a very aggressive approach since there is almost always some postoperative numbness of the lower lip and jaw area, which typically dissipates very slowly, but may be permanent. Usually, other, less aggressive options are considered first (placement of blade implants, etc).
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Nerve Repositioning Treatment Process
Typically, we remove an outer section of the cheek on the side of the lower jaw bone in order to expose the nerve and vessel canal. We then isolate the nerve and vessel bundle in that area and slightly pull it out to the side. We then place the implants while tracking the neuro-vascular bundle. Then the bundle is released and placed back over the implants. The surgical access is refilled with bone graft material of the surgeon’s choice and the area is closed.
These procedures may be performed separately or together depending upon the individual’s condition. As stated earlier, there are several areas of the body that are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region, or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more extensive situations a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee. When we use the patient’s own bone for repairs or additions, we generally get the best results.
In many cases, we can use allograft material to implement bone grafting for dental implants. This bone is prepared from cadavers and is used to get the patient’s own bone to grow into the repair site. It is quite effective and very safe. Synthetic materials can also be used to stimulate bone formation. We even use factors from your own blood to accelerate and promote bone formation in graft areas.
These surgeries are performed in the out-office surgical suite under IV sedation or general anesthesia. After discharge, bed rest is recommended for one day, as well as limited physical activity for one week.
Ready To Book A Consultation?
Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!
Legacy Oral and Facial Surgery Center Office Phone Number (734) 210-0677 Book Online
Legacy Oral and Facial Surgery Center
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great Job!
- Praskovya N
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Got me in as soon as I called, severe pain, bad wisdom tooth, complications "Can you be here in 45 minutes? Absolutely. Couldn't be any smoother or professional from the start. Top level facility and service. This Doc., Doctor Dalbert Fear is the most compassionate Doctor I have encountered in my 63 year lifetime. I had an impacted 3rd molar that was infected trying to grow a wrong direction in my jawbone that was a very tough surgery. Consequently the lingual nerve that affects the tongue was disturbed in the process and caused excruciating pain and numbness after the 1st surgery. The 2nd molar also had to be extracted because of this. Doctor Fear took an immidiate interest in solving this issue in any way possible, after 2 more encounters into general anesthesia the reason for the excruciating pain, inability to swallow or talk was discovered and Dr. Fear solved the problem of not being able to swallow, eat or talk for 3 weeks. It has been the most traumatizing medical emergency of my life and this man and his staff stuck with me every day, every minute until the pain problem was solved. The surgery that was performed was a very hard issue as the lingual nerve passes right by where the tooth had to be extracted, Trust me when I tell you, you NEVER want to experience this kind of pain. I have drilled a hole through my hand with a #8 size drill bit, had broken ribs, dislocated shoulder, broken collar bone, deviated septum surgery under local anesthesia, broken bones in my right hand, and foot, 4 root canals, 3 tooth implants. All of these events were a square dance compared to this. I NEVER thought or knew that pain like this was possible and the good Doctor and his staff kept me as comfortable and pain free as possible with any medications that were required or additional surgeries or other tasks that needed to be performed. The postoperative care that I received and continue to receive from Legacy Oral and Facial Surgery Center after this procedure is certainly nothing like I have experienced in any other medical health care facility, Emergency Room trauma center, hospital or any other doctor in my lifetime. Absolutely the best care I have ever received, and continue to receive from this facility and staff. Dr. Fear has told me personally that he is on this with us until it is completly solved. Millions of thank you's to Dr. Fear, and all the nurses, professionals and office staff that have helped me and my wife through this very trying time through the Christmas holiday season with this injury. We Thank you very sincerely, Mark & Ruby D.
- Mark D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr Fear is an amazing man. I am 78 yrs old and have a rare type of lymphoma, and he immediately understood, how it behaved (very rare for anyone to know this) the impact of it and helped me decide what to do. He was so kind! It is refreshing to have an oral surgeon who also understands your general health and takes it into consideration in the process. I was in so much pain from a week of attempted root canals at an endodontist. But the tooth wouldn't cooperate and the abscess was getting larger.. But the extraction procedure was fast! The tooth popped, he was able to remove the infection from the abscess, and stitch it up in record time. He was a life saver for me. And the nurse (short blond hair can't remember her name) who took care of me was so fabulous. She really looked out for me through the whole process. Thanks to both of you and your staff.
- Judith S
