Nerve Repositioning in Billerica, Westford & Worcester, MA

What Is Nerve Repositioning?

Nerve repositioning (also known as nerve lateralization or nerve transposition) is a surgical procedure that involves carefully moving the inferior alveolar nerve out of the way to make room for a dental implant. This nerve controls sensation in the lower lip, chin, and teeth, so extreme caution is required during any procedure near it.

This technique is typically used in the posterior mandible (back lower jaw) when there is not enough bone height between the top of the jaw and the nerve canal. By temporarily relocating the nerve, the surgeon can safely place an implant without causing nerve injury.

To learn more about procedures that make implant placement possible, visit our Bone Grafting page.

When Is Nerve Repositioning Necessary?

This procedure is generally reserved for complex cases where:

• Bone resorption after tooth loss has reduced the height of the jaw
  
• The nerve lies too close to the surface of the bone to allow implant placement
  
• Dental Implants must be placed in the back lower jaw with minimal risk to nerve integrity
  
• Grafting or other techniques are not sufficient to avoid the nerve
  

Our surgeons use 3D Imaging to evaluate nerve location and jaw anatomy, helping determine if repositioning is necessary or if alternative approaches can be used.

How the Procedure Works

Nerve repositioning is performed under deep sedation or general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The steps typically include:

1. Accessing the nerve through a small window in the jawbone
   
2. Gently moving the nerve to the side to expose the implant site
   
3. Placing one or more dental implants
   
4. Placing a protective barrier over the nerve and repositioning it
   
5. Closing the surgical site with sutures
   

The nerve remains functional after surgery but may require time to adjust and heal. Post-operative numbness or tingling is not uncommon but typically resolves with time.

If you're interested in replacing a single tooth after this type of procedure, visit our Single Tooth Implants page to learn more.

Risks and Considerations

Nerve repositioning is highly specialized and carries additional considerations compared to routine implant placement. Potential risks include:

• Temporary or prolonged numbness in the lower lip, chin, or teeth
  
• Tingling or altered sensation during healing
  
• Swelling or discomfort at the surgical site
  

Our experienced surgeons minimize these risks by using advanced imaging, microsurgical tools, and conservative surgical techniques. Every patient is evaluated thoroughly to determine whether nerve repositioning is the best approach.

To manage anxiety during oral surgery, we offer several Anesthesia Options for your comfort and safety.

Expertise That Matters

At New England Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our surgeons are trained to handle the most complex implant preparation cases. With decades of combined experience, board certification, and advanced diagnostic equipment, we are equipped to perform nerve repositioning with precision and care.

Our practice serves patients with high-risk implant needs and works in close coordination with referring dentists and prosthodontists to ensure a seamless treatment process.

Serving Massachusetts with Specialized Surgical Care

We proudly offer nerve repositioning surgery at our locations in Billerica, Westford, and Worcester, MA. Patients from Lowell, Wilmington, Bedford, Andover, Concord, and surrounding communities trust our surgical team for comprehensive implant solutions.

For directions and hours, visit our Contact Us / Locations page.