Implant Surgery
Mandibular Nerve Repositioning
The inferior alveolar nerve runs through the lower jaw and supplies feeling to the lip and chin. In a severely resorbed back jaw there can be too little bone above the nerve to place an implant safely. Nerve repositioning (lateralization) carefully moves the nerve aside so implants can be placed into the full height of bone.
It is an advanced procedure reserved for specific, well-planned cases where conventional placement or grafting alone is not enough.
Who it's for
- Severe bone loss in the lower back jaw
- Implants desired where bone height above the nerve is inadequate
- Cases where grafting alone cannot create enough height
- Patients seeking a fixed alternative to a lower denture
What to expect
- 1
Detailed 3D planning
Precise CBCT mapping of the nerve canal is essential and guides every step.
- 2
The procedure
The nerve is gently exposed and repositioned, and implants are placed into the now-available bone.
- 3
Protected healing
A change in lip or chin sensation is expected at first and usually resolves; in a small number of cases it can be permanent. This is discussed thoroughly beforehand.
- 4
Restoration
Once integrated, the implants are restored in coordination with your dentist.
Recovery & aftercare
Temporary numbness or tingling of the lip and chin is expected and typically improves over weeks to months as the nerve recovers. We monitor sensation closely throughout healing.
As with other implant surgery, the surgical discomfort itself is usually mild and managed with standard aftercare.
Common questions
- Will I lose feeling in my lip?
- A temporary change in lip and chin sensation is very common right after surgery and usually improves over weeks to months. There is also a small but real risk of permanent altered sensation — reported in roughly 3–5% of cases for nerve lateralization, and higher for nerve transposition — so it is a recognized risk we discuss in detail and weigh against the alternatives before surgery.
- Is there another option?
- Often yes — short implants, grafting, or a different restorative plan. Nerve repositioning is reserved for cases where it is the best path, and the choice is made together.
Talk to a specialist about mandibular nerve repositioning
Whether you're a patient considering treatment or a dentist referring a case, we'll evaluate, plan, and coordinate care from diagnosis through follow-up.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.