Nerve Repositioning for Dental Implants
Nerve repositioning is a surgical technique used when the jawbone height above the nerve is insufficient for standard implant placement. By carefully mobilizing the inferior alveolar nerve and creating space, implants can be placed in the posterior mandible even in cases with advanced bone resorption. This enables safe rehabilitations in anatomically challenging situations.
At WestDent Clinic, each case is evaluated via 3D imaging and bone volume analysis to determine suitability. When indicated, the nerve is temporarily repositioned — allowing implants to be inserted while protecting neuro-vascular structures — followed by bone grafting and careful closure for optimal healing and long-term results.
Advantages of Nerve Repositioning
A viable surgical option for restoring dental function in lower-jaw cases where bone height is compromised; enabling implant-based prosthetics where other methods are not feasible.
Enables Implant Placement in Difficult Cases
Allows implant placement in severe bone-loss areas where fixed teeth would otherwise not be possible.
Avoids Extensive Bone Augmentation
Minimizes the need for major grafting by repositioning the nerve, reducing both time and surgical load.
Provides a Fixed, Durable Restoration Option
Offers stable implant-supported prosthetics in complex anatomy, ensuring reliable function and comfort.
Procedure Overview
The treatment begins with detailed 3D diagnostics to assess nerve location, bone volume and anatomical structure. If conditions are appropriate, a surgical access is created to expose the nerve canal; the nerve bundle is gently mobilized sideways, creating room for implant insertion while preserving neuro-vascular integrity.
After implant placement, the nerve bundle is repositioned over the implants; the surgical site is filled (often with bone graft material) and closed. Healing is monitored closely, and final prosthetic restoration is planned based on osseointegration and patient recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nerve repositioning (or lateralization/transposition) involves temporarily moving the inferior alveolar nerve to allow dental implant placement in the lower jaw, in cases where bone height is inadequate above the nerve canal.
Patients with posterior mandibular edentulism and insufficient bone height over the nerve channel — where standard implants or other augmentation methods are not viable — may be considered after thorough radiological and clinical assessment.
Nerve repositioning is more invasive than standard implant placement; patients may experience temporary numbness or altered sensation in the lower lip or chin. While many recover sensation over time, in some cases sensory disturbance may persist. Clinical studies show that when performed correctly, implant survival rates remain high. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
This procedure allows implant-based fixed restorations even in severely resorbed mandibles — without requiring extensive grafting or complex augmentation protocols, offering a predictable solution for difficult anatomical cases.