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What is Nerve Repositioning?
Nerve repositioning is a surgical procedure used to move the inferior alveolar nerve, which runs through the lower jaw, when its location interferes with dental implant placement. This nerve provides sensation to the lower lip and chin, so its protection is essential. However, in patients with significant bone loss in the lower jaw, the nerve may sit too close to the surface, leaving insufficient room to securely place dental implants.
At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Gulfport, MS, nerve repositioning is performed in rare but necessary cases where the anatomy of the jaw does not allow safe implant placement. This highly specialized procedure involves carefully exposing and temporarily moving the nerve so implants can be securely placed without causing damage. Once the implants are positioned, the nerve is repositioned and protected with grafting material to ensure healing and preserve sensation.
Nerve repositioning is typically considered only when no other implant placement or grafting approach will offer a successful outcome, and it requires the precision and skill of an experienced oral surgeon.
How Nerve Repositioning Affects Your Bone Graft
Nerve repositioning is closely tied to advanced bone grafting procedures. Patients who need this surgery often have significant atrophy in the jawbone—meaning they’ve lost bone mass over time due to tooth loss, injury, or prolonged denture use. In these cases, grafting is needed to rebuild volume and support implant placement.
By repositioning the nerve, we open up new space to place bone grafts and dental implants in areas that were previously too risky. The graft provides the necessary structure, while the nerve is carefully shielded from any pressure or trauma. It’s a delicate balance between creating enough bone support for your restoration and ensuring the long-term health of your nerve function.
Our team at South Mississippi Oral Surgery uses 3D imaging and guided surgical techniques to plan this complex process with the utmost precision.
Why Choose South Mississippi Oral Surgery?
Nerve repositioning is a procedure that requires advanced surgical training and careful planning. At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Gulfport, MS, our board-certified oral surgeons—Dr. Jared Akers, Dr. Bennett York, and Dr. Spencer Remley—have the expertise to safely perform nerve repositioning as part of comprehensive implant rehabilitation.
We use state-of-the-art imaging to visualize the nerve’s exact location and determine whether repositioning is necessary. If so, our surgical team will walk you through the process, recovery expectations, and alternatives to ensure you’re comfortable and confident in your care.
From consultation through recovery, our goal is to protect your long-term oral health and function while helping you achieve a restored smile with maximum comfort and safety.