Dental implants require adequate bone for stable placement, but significant bone loss in the lower jaw can complicate implant treatment. In certain cases, the inferior alveolar nerve runs through the area where implants need to be placed, leaving insufficient vertical bone for conventional treatment. Nerve repositioning is an advanced surgical technique that may allow appropriately selected patients to receive dental implants without compromising the nerve.
At Sultan Center for Oral Facial Surgery in Fort Lauderdale, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Leslie Sultan performs complex jaw reconstruction and dental implant procedures for patients with challenging anatomy and significant bone loss. Using detailed imaging and individualized surgical planning, he can determine whether nerve repositioning is appropriate for your implant treatment.
What Is Nerve Repositioning?
The inferior alveolar nerve travels through a canal inside the lower jaw and provides sensation to the lower teeth, chin, and lower lip. When substantial bone loss has occurred, there may be very little jawbone between this nerve and the upper surface of the lower jaw.
Nerve repositioning, sometimes called nerve lateralization or transposition, temporarily moves the nerve away from the planned implant site. This can create access to the available jawbone so that dental implants can be placed in a more favorable position. The nerve is then carefully positioned alongside the implants.
When Is Nerve Repositioning Recommended?
Nerve repositioning is not routinely required for dental implant placement. It is generally reserved for complex cases in which severe bone loss in the posterior lower jaw limits other options.
You may be evaluated for this procedure if you have:
- Significant loss of lower jawbone
- Missing back teeth for an extended period
- Insufficient bone above the inferior alveolar nerve
- Anatomy that prevents conventional implant placement
- A need for implant-supported dental rehabilitation
Because other reconstructive approaches may also be available, Dr. Sultan evaluates your anatomy and restorative goals before recommending a treatment strategy.
What Can You Expect After Surgery?
Recovery varies according to the extent of surgery and whether additional procedures are performed. Swelling, soreness, and temporary changes in sensation may occur during healing.
Because the inferior alveolar nerve controls sensation in the lower lip and chin, nerve repositioning carries a risk of altered sensation, including numbness or tingling. These changes may be temporary or, in some cases, persistent. Dr. Sultan will discuss the potential benefits, alternatives, and nerve-related risks with you before treatment so you can make an informed decision.
Why Choose Dr. Leslie Sultan for Nerve Repositioning?
Nerve repositioning requires an advanced understanding of facial anatomy, nerve pathways, dental implant placement, and jaw reconstruction. Dr. Sultan has practiced oral and maxillofacial surgery in Fort Lauderdale since 1990 and has been board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery since 1992. Reconstruction of deficient jaws using advanced implant and bone-grafting techniques is a major focus of his practice.
His experience with complex implant reconstruction, combined with 3D imaging and computer-guided surgical planning, allows treatment to be tailored to challenging anatomical conditions.
Schedule a Consultation in Fort Lauderdale
If severe lower jawbone loss has prevented you from receiving dental implants, nerve repositioning may offer another treatment option. Contact Sultan Center for Oral Facial Surgery at (954) 771-8772 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Leslie Sultan and explore an individualized approach to rebuilding your smile.
