Nerve repositioning is a specialised dental procedure that involves carefully moving the inferior alveolar nerve to allow for dental implant placement in the lower jaw. At London Dental Specialists, we understand this can seem daunting. Many patients have questions about the process, recovery, and alternatives. Nerve lateralization or transposition may be recommended when bone height is insufficient for standard implants. During the procedure, our surgeons expose the nerve and gently move it aside while implants are placed. This technique requires precision and expertise to minimise risk of temporary or permanent nerve damage. We prioritise patient education and thorough consultation before recommending this advanced procedure, ensuring you understand all options for your specific case.
What is nerve repositioning in dental implant procedures?
Nerve repositioning is a specialised dental surgical procedure where the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) is temporarily moved to allow for dental implant placement in the posterior mandible (lower jaw) where bone height is limited. At London Dental Specialists, our oral surgeons carefully expose the nerve and gently move it aside during implant placement, then return it to its position. This technique enables implant placement in areas that would otherwise require shorter implants or bone grafting procedures.
When is nerve repositioning recommended for dental implants?
Nerve repositioning is typically recommended in specific clinical situations, including:
- Severely resorbed posterior mandible with insufficient bone height above the nerve canal
- Cases where standard implant placement would risk nerve damage
- Patients who are not suitable candidates for bone grafting procedures
- Situations requiring longer implants for better stability and function
- Patients with specific anatomical considerations that make other approaches challenging
What are the risks associated with nerve repositioning?
As with any surgical procedure, nerve repositioning carries certain risks that our specialists at London Dental Specialists will thoroughly discuss during consultation. These may include:
- Temporary or permanent altered sensation (numbness, tingling or pain) in the lower lip, chin or tongue
- Potential for nerve damage despite careful handling
- Infection at the surgical site
- Bleeding and swelling
- Delayed healing in some cases
How is the nerve repositioning procedure performed?
At London Dental Specialists, the nerve repositioning procedure involves several precise steps:
- Administration of appropriate anaesthesia
- Creation of a careful surgical access window in the lateral aspect of the mandible
- Identification and gentle mobilisation of the inferior alveolar nerve
- Temporary displacement of the nerve while implants are placed
- Returning the nerve to its position, often protected by a collagen membrane
- Closure of the surgical site with appropriate sutures
What is the recovery period after nerve repositioning surgery?
Recovery after nerve repositioning typically takes 2-4 weeks for initial healing. Patients may experience facial swelling, bruising and altered sensation in the lower lip and chin area during this period. Complete nerve recovery, if temporary paraesthesia occurs, may take 3-6 months. London Dental Specialists provides comprehensive post-operative care instructions and regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and ensure optimal outcomes.
What alternatives exist to nerve repositioning for dental implants?
London Dental Specialists offers several alternatives to nerve repositioning that may be suitable depending on your specific case:
- Short dental implants that can be placed above the nerve
- Bone grafting procedures to increase bone height
- Zygomatic implants for upper jaw cases
- All-on-4 or All-on-6 implant solutions that can avoid the nerve area
- Guided implant placement using advanced 3D imaging techniques
How successful is nerve repositioning for dental implants?
Nerve repositioning has a success rate of approximately 85-95% when performed by experienced specialists like those at London Dental Specialists. The procedure allows for placement of longer implants with better primary stability. While temporary nerve disturbance is common, permanent nerve damage is rare when performed by qualified surgeons using proper techniques and advanced imaging. Long-term implant survival rates are comparable to conventional implant placement methods.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for nerve repositioning?
Determining candidacy for nerve repositioning requires a comprehensive evaluation at London Dental Specialists. This assessment includes:
- 3D cone beam CT scanning to evaluate bone dimensions and nerve position
- Review of medical and dental history
- Examination of current oral health status
- Discussion of treatment goals and expectations
- Consideration of alternative treatment options
Our specialists will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your specific anatomical and clinical situation.
What should I expect during the consultation for nerve repositioning?
During your consultation at London Dental Specialists for nerve repositioning, you can expect:
- A thorough examination of your oral cavity and existing dentition
- Advanced 3D imaging to assess bone volume and nerve location
- Discussion of your medical history and any factors that might affect treatment
- Explanation of the procedure, including benefits, risks and alternatives
- Opportunity to ask questions and address concerns
- Development of a personalised treatment plan
- Information about costs, timeline and what to expect during recovery
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