Procedures for Advanced Dental Implants
The inferior alveolar nerve, responsible for sensation in the lower lip and chin, may need to be repositioned to accommodate dental implants in the lower jaw. This procedure is specific to the lower jaw and is typically recommended when teeth are missing in the area of the two back molars and/or second premolars. It is considered a more aggressive approach as it often results in postoperative numbness in the lower lip and jaw area, which may persist. Less invasive options, such as blade implants, are usually explored first.
During the procedure, a section of the cheek on the side of the lower jawbone is removed to access the nerve and vessel canal. The nerve and vessel bundle is carefully isolated, pulled to the side, and the implants are placed while monitoring the bundle. Once the implants are in place, the bundle is released and placed back over them. The surgical site is then filled with bone graft material and closed up.
These procedures can be done individually or in combination, depending on the patient's condition. There are various areas of the body where bone grafts can be obtained. In the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, the chin or third molar region, or the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more complex cases, a larger amount of bone can be taken from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee. Using the patient's own bone for repairs or additions typically yields the most favorable outcomes.
Allograft material is often utilized for bone grafting in dental implant procedures. This bone, sourced from cadavers, encourages the patient's own bone to grow into the repair site. It is a highly effective and safe method. Additionally, synthetic materials can be used to stimulate bone formation, and factors from the patient's own blood can be used to accelerate and promote bone growth in graft areas.
The surgeries are conducted in the outpatient surgical suite with IV sedation or general anesthesia. Following discharge, it is advised to rest in bed for one day and limit physical activity for one week.
