What is Nerve Repositioning in Your Jaw?

Posted on 7/1/2026 by Pacific Maxillofacial Center

Blonde woman holding her jaw in dental chair

Let's talk about a situation that can sometimes arise when we're planning dental treatments in the lower jaw, particularly when it comes to things like implants or other types of oral care. It involves a nerve that's pretty important, and understanding what's going on can help you feel more confident about your treatment options.

Understanding the Inferior Alveolar Nerve

Deep inside your lower jawbone runs a nerve called the inferior alveolar nerve. This nerve is responsible for giving you feeling in your lower teeth, your lip, and your chin on that side of your face. Think about it – when you get numb at the dentist for work on a lower tooth, that's this nerve that's being affected. This nerve travels through a canal in the jawbone.

Why Nerve Repositioning Might Be Considered

Sometimes, when you've lost teeth in your lower jaw, the bone in that area can shrink over time. This is a natural process called bone resorption. If you're considering dental implants (artificial tooth roots that are placed in the jawbone) to replace those missing teeth, there might not be enough bone height above the nerve canal to safely place the implant.

In these situations, a procedure called nerve repositioning might be an option. The goal of nerve repositioning is to carefully move the inferior alveolar nerve slightly to the side, creating enough space to place the implant. It’s important to understand that this is a delicate procedure and not every case requires it.

The Nerve Repositioning Procedure

The procedure involves carefully exposing the nerve and gently moving it out of its canal. The implant is then placed, and the nerve is carefully returned to its original position, or as close to it as possible. Bone grafting material may be used to help support the implant and the nerve.

What to Expect After Nerve Repositioning

After the procedure, it's normal to experience some temporary numbness or tingling in the area supplied by the nerve – your lower lip and chin. In most cases, this sensation gradually returns over time. It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully after the procedure to ensure proper healing.

Alternatives to Nerve Repositioning

It's also important to know that nerve repositioning isn't the only option. Other techniques, such as shorter implants, bone grafting procedures, or alternative restorative dentistry solutions, might be considered. Your oral surgeon will carefully evaluate your individual situation and discuss the best treatment plan for you. Cone Beam CT imaging is often used to carefully evaluate the position of the nerve prior to making any recommendations.

Is Nerve Repositioning Right for You?

The decision to undergo nerve repositioning is a complex one that should be made in consultation with a qualified oral surgeon. They will assess your specific needs, explain the risks and benefits of the procedure, and help you determine if it's the right choice for you. It is a very technique sensitive procedure that requires specialized training.

Understanding the role of the inferior alveolar nerve and the possibility of nerve repositioning as part of your oral care can help you participate more fully in the treatment planning process. Don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss your concerns with your oral surgeon.

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At Pacific Maxillofacial Center the doctors cover dental subjects, that you and your family may be interested in. Call us today, we are located nearby Honolulu!
Pacific Maxillofacial Center, 1060 Young Street #312, Honolulu, HI 96814; 808-585-8455; pacificmaxcenter.com; 7/13/2026; Associated Words: Dental Implants Honolulu;