Dental implants offer a safe, sturdy, and long-lasting solution to tooth loss. To install the implant, your dentist will first fuse a tiny titanium post into your jawbone. After you have healed from this procedure, a crown—the fake tooth—can be affixed to this fake “root.” In some cases, the procedure requires an extra step, known as nerve repositioning. 

What Nerve Repositioning Is

The inferior alveolar nerve is responsible for giving feeling to your lower lip and chin. When installing dental implants into the lower jaw—usually only when replacing back molars—this nerve may get in the way. In order to avoid damaging it and preserve sensation, your dentist may need to reposition the nerve.

How the Procedure Is Done

To reach the inferior alveolar nerve, your dentist will cut through an outer portion of the cheek in the lower jawbone. This allows them to isolate the nerve and related vessels, bundling them together and pulling them to the side. They can then install the implants and move this “bundle” back into place before refilling the access site with bone graft material for stability.

The procedure is done under sedation, so you won’t feel any pain or even be aware of what’s going on. After, you can expect post-operative numbness in the lips and jaws. Don’t panic: This should disappear with time. You will need to limit activity for at least one week, so don’t plan on going back to work right away.

If you are considering dental implants in the Anchorage area, Oral Surgery Associates Of Alaska, LLC can help. Known for their gentle care, oral surgeons Dr. William F. Bergeron, Jr. and Dr. Ray Holloway will make you feel at ease, whatever procedure you may turn to them for. You can get an overview of their comprehensive service offerings, from wisdom teeth removal to jaw surgery, online. For an appointment, call (907) 561-1430.