Dental implant placement in the lower jaw can be challenging for patients with severe bone loss near the inferior alveolar nerve. At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey, nerve lateralization is a specialized technique that allows dental implants to be placed safely while preserving nerve function.
This procedure is especially useful for patients who wish to restore their lower jaw function with implants but have limited bone height due to tooth loss, periodontal disease, or long-term denture wear. Nerve lateralization provides a safe and effective solution for restoring chewing, speaking, and overall oral health.
Nerve lateralization is a surgical procedure designed to move the inferior alveolar nerve slightly to create enough space for dental implants in the lower jaw. The nerve is carefully repositioned without damage, allowing implants to be placed in patients with minimal bone height near the nerve.
It is primarily used for patients requiring implants in the posterior lower jaw (molars and premolars).
The procedure avoids extensive bone grafting, which can prolong treatment time.
It allows for the placement of longer, more stable implants, improving the overall success rate of dental restorations.
In simple terms, nerve lateralization makes it possible to place dental implants safely and efficiently in challenging lower jaw cases.
The procedure is designed to:
Enable dental implant placement in areas with limited bone height.
Preserve the function of the inferior alveolar nerve, minimizing risk of permanent numbness.
Avoid extensive bone grafting or sinus lift procedures when possible.
Restore chewing ability, speaking clarity, and facial aesthetics.
Provide a long-term solution for patients with lower jaw tooth loss.
For patients in West Byfleet, Surrey, nerve lateralization ensures they can benefit from fixed dental implants even in difficult anatomical situations.
Choosing nerve lateralization for lower jaw implants provides several key advantages:
The inferior alveolar nerve is carefully repositioned to create room for implants. This reduces the risk of nerve damage while ensuring stable implant placement.
Traditional solutions often require bone grafts or long healing periods. Nerve lateralization avoids extensive grafting, reducing treatment time and discomfort.
After lateralization, implants can often be placed immediately, allowing for faster restoration of teeth and function.
Skilled surgeons at York House Dental Practice use precision techniques to minimize the risk of permanent nerve injury. Temporary numbness may occur but usually resolves over time.
By creating sufficient bone space, longer implants can be used, which increases stability and long-term success.
Patients regain the ability to chew effectively, speak clearly, and maintain facial structure. This can greatly enhance quality of life.
The nerve lateralization procedure at York House Dental Practice is carefully planned to ensure safety, precision, and comfort. Here’s what you can expect:
Comprehensive oral and overall health evaluation.
X-rays and 3D imaging to assess bone height and nerve location.
Discussion of patient goals, risks, and expected outcomes.
Customized plan for implant positioning and nerve relocation.
Consideration of bite alignment, prosthetic requirements, and long-term function.
Identification of any teeth requiring extraction or additional preparation.
Local anaesthesia ensures a pain-free experience.
A small section of bone is carefully removed to access the inferior alveolar nerve.
The nerve is gently moved to create space for the implant.
Dental implants are placed into the prepared site with precise angulation.
Depending on the case, temporary teeth may be placed immediately.
Immediate loading restores function and aesthetics, allowing normal eating and speaking.
The implant site is allowed to heal, typically over a few months.
Custom-made crowns or bridges are fitted to match natural teeth in size, shape, and color.
Regular check-ups monitor implant stability and nerve function.
Adjustments to the prosthetic teeth are made if necessary.
Any lingering numbness or sensitivity is closely monitored until resolution.
Proper aftercare ensures the long-term success of implants placed with nerve lateralization:
Brush gently around the implant area twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Use floss or interdental brushes to remove plaque without disturbing the surgical site.
Rinse with a prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended.
Avoid hard or chewy foods during initial healing.
Attend all follow-up appointments at York House Dental Practice.
Report any prolonged numbness, unusual pain, or swelling immediately.
With proper care, implants placed with nerve lateralization can last for decades.
Nerve lateralization is suitable for adults who:
Require dental implants in the posterior lower jaw but have limited bone height.
Have missing lower jaw teeth due to trauma, periodontal disease, or long-term denture use.
Desire a fixed, long-lasting dental restoration without extensive grafting.
Are willing to follow post-operative care instructions to ensure implant success.
A detailed consultation at York House Dental Practice ensures that every patient receives a safe and personalized treatment plan.
Like any surgical procedure, nerve lateralization carries some risks. Complications are rare when performed by experienced professionals:
Temporary numbness or tingling in the lower lip, chin, or gums.
Mild swelling or bruising at the surgical site.
Infection, which can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and antibiotics if prescribed.
Rare nerve injury, which could result in prolonged numbness.
The team at York House Dental Practice follows strict surgical protocols to minimize risk and ensure predictable outcomes.
A patient in West Byfleet, Surrey had lost multiple lower molars and could not have conventional implants due to limited bone height near the nerve. Using nerve lateralization, the dentist repositioned the nerve and placed stable implants. The patient received temporary teeth immediately, restored normal chewing, and experienced only mild, temporary numbness that resolved within a few weeks.
| Feature | Nerve Lateralization | Traditional Bone Grafting |
|---|---|---|
| Bone requirement | Works with minimal bone | Requires sufficient bone or grafting |
| Treatment time | Often allows immediate implant placement | Longer healing required (months) |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive relative to grafting | More invasive, multiple surgeries |
| Implant stability | High due to adequate space for implants | High if graft successful |
| Nerve preservation | Nerve carefully relocated | Nerve usually untouched |
| Ideal for posterior lower jaw | Yes | Sometimes limited by bone height |
| Recovery | Faster, fewer procedures | Longer, multiple appointments |
This comparison helps patients understand why nerve lateralization is an effective alternative for challenging lower jaw cases.
1. Is nerve lateralization painful?
Local anaesthesia ensures a comfortable procedure. Mild soreness or swelling may occur but usually resolves within days.
2. How long does it take to heal?
Initial healing occurs within 1–2 weeks. Complete integration of the implants usually takes 3–4 months.
3. Will I experience numbness permanently?
Most patients experience temporary numbness that gradually improves over several weeks. Permanent nerve damage is rare.
4. Can all patients with limited lower jaw bone undergo this procedure?
Suitability depends on bone quantity, nerve position, and overall oral health. A comprehensive consultation at York House Dental Practice will determine eligibility.
5. Are implants placed after nerve lateralization durable?
Yes, when placed correctly and maintained with good oral hygiene, these implants can last for decades.
At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey, we combine advanced technology, surgical expertise, and patient-centered care to ensure the success of nerve lateralization procedures:
Experienced dental surgeons specialized in complex implantology.
Advanced imaging technology for precise nerve and bone assessment.
Personalized treatment plans for each patient’s unique anatomy.
Comfort-focused care from consultation through follow-up.
Proven track record of successful nerve lateralization and implant placements.
We prioritize safety, functionality, and aesthetics to restore confidence and oral health.
Nerve lateralization is a specialized dental procedure that allows patients with limited lower jaw bone to receive stable, durable dental implants. At York House Dental Practice, we provide expert care to ensure safe nerve management, immediate functionality, and natural-looking results.
Whether you need implants to replace missing molars or multiple teeth in the lower jaw, nerve lateralization offers a reliable, long-lasting, and minimally invasive solution.
Take the first step toward restoring your smile and oral function by booking a consultation at York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey.
Principal Dentist at York House Dental Practice
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