Nerve Repositioning
Nerve Repositioning in Denver Tech Center and Parker, CO
The inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin travels inside the lower jaw bone beneath the roots of teeth. It may need to be moved in order to make room for the placement of dental implants in the lower jaw. This procedure is limited to the lower jaw and may be indicated when teeth are missing in the area of the two back molars and/or second premolars. This procedure is considered a very aggressive approach since there is almost always some postoperative numbness of the lower lip and jaw area, which typically dissipates very slowly, but may be permanent.
Typically, we remove an outer section of the cheek side of the lower jaw bone in order to expose the nerve and vessel canal. We then isolate the nerve and vessel bundle in that area and slightly pull it outside of the jaw. We then place the implants while tracking the neuro-vascular bundle. Then the bundle is released and placed back over the implants. The surgical access is refilled with bone graft material of the surgeon’s choice and the area is closed.
Attaining Bone Grafts
These procedures may be performed separately or together depending upon the individual’s condition. As stated earlier, there are several areas of the body that are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region, or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more extensive situations a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee. When we use the patient’s own bone for repairs or additions, we generally get the best results.
What to Expect
In many cases, we can use allograft material to implement bone grafting for dental implants. This bone is prepared from cadavers and is used to get the patient’s own bone to grow into the repair site. It is quite effective and very safe. Synthetic materials can also be used to stimulate bone formation. We even use factors from your own blood to accelerate and promote bone formation in graft areas.
These surgeries are typically performed in our office surgical suite under IV sedation or general anesthesia. After discharge, bed rest is recommended for one day, as well as limited physical activity for one week.