Nerve Repositioning Surgery in St. Augustine, FL

Advanced surgical techniques to make implants possible in challenging lower jaw cases

Don't accept dentures or bridges as your only option. Discover how nerve repositioning can make dental implants possible even in challenging lower jaw cases.

What Is Nerve Repositioning?

Nerve repositioning, also known as inferior alveolar nerve lateralization or transposition, is a sophisticated surgical procedure that temporarily moves the nerve that runs through the lower jawbone to allow for dental implant placement in areas with limited bone height. This advanced technique addresses one of the most challenging situations in implant dentistry—when bone loss in the lower jaw has left insufficient space between the top of the jawbone and the nerve canal.

The inferior alveolar nerve provides sensation to your lower lip, chin, and teeth. It runs through a canal within your jawbone, and traditionally, implants must be placed above this canal to avoid nerve damage. When bone loss reduces the height available above the nerve, conventional implant placement becomes impossible without risking nerve injury.

During nerve repositioning, Dr. Johnson carefully exposes the nerve canal, gently moves the nerve to the side while protecting it, places dental implants in the now-accessible jawbone, and then returns the nerve to a position where it’s protected but no longer prevents implant placement. This specialized procedure requires exceptional surgical skill and is performed only by oral surgeons with advanced training like Dr. Johnson.

Dr. Douglas L. Johnson, DMD

With over 25 years of specialized experience, Dr. Johnson provides exceptional care using the latest techniques and technology.

Dr. Johnson is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who completed his education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and advanced training through fellowships at prestigious institutions. His extensive training and experience allow him to perform complex procedures with precision and care.

At our state-of-the-art facility, we prioritize your comfort and results. Dr. Johnson and his specially trained staff are committed to providing you with the highest standard of care in a welcoming environment.

What are the Benefits of Nerve Repositioning Surgery ?

Nerve repositioning offers significant advantages for patients with severe bone loss in the lower jaw who still wish to have fixed, implant-supported teeth. The primary benefit is making implant placement possible in areas where conventional approaches would be impossible due to limited bone height above the nerve canal. This expanded treatment capability means more patients can enjoy the superior function and aesthetics that only dental implants can provide, even in challenging anatomical situations.

By allowing implant placement in the native jawbone, nerve repositioning often eliminates the need for extensive bone grafting procedures that would otherwise be required to build up sufficient height above the nerve. This can significantly reduce overall treatment time and cost while providing a more predictable foundation for long-term implant success.

From a quality of life perspective, nerve repositioning allows patients to receive fixed implant restorations rather than removable dentures, which can dramatically improve chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and confidence. The ability to place implants in the posterior (back) region of the lower jaw helps distribute bite forces more naturally, protecting remaining teeth and maintaining proper jaw function.

Our Reviews

Why Patients Choose Us

Care and Commitment

From the front office to the exam room, our practice is made up of professionals who take your oral health very seriously. Using state-of-the-art equipment designed with safety and efficiency in mind, we are able to offer top-notch care. As you walk through our office, you will notice that everything is clean, comfortable and thoroughly sterilized. Your safety and comfort are our priority.

Honesty and Affordability

We know that the cost of care can be confusing. In addition to offering a number of in-office payment options to fit your budget, we also give you up-front cost information on your treatment ahead of time. We are in network with a variety of insurance plans, and we offer dental financing with credit available in time frames that fit your needs. We are happy to help you navigate your dental insurance and alternative payment options.

Comprehensive Oral Surgery Care in One Location

At our practice, we are qualified to handle all aspects of your oral and maxillofacial care, so you are always surrounded by people that you trust. If we must refer out, we promise to send you to carefully vetted colleagues who apply the same professional principles in their office that we do in ours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a Candidate for Nerve Repositioning?

Nerve repositioning is generally considered for patients who have significant bone loss in the lower jaw, particularly when the height of bone above the nerve canal is insufficient for conventional implant placement (typically less than 5-6mm). Ideal candidates are in good general health, non-smokers or willing to quit during the healing period, and committed to excellent oral hygiene. This procedure is typically recommended only after other options have been considered, as it does carry some risk of temporary or permanent altered sensation.

What Are the Alternatives to Nerve Repositioning?

Alternatives to nerve repositioning include vertical bone augmentation to build up bone height above the nerve, the use of shorter implants that can be placed without interfering with the nerve, or in some cases, implants placed in front of the nerve where more bone is typically available. Dr. Johnson will thoroughly discuss all appropriate options during your consultation, weighing the relative advantages and limitations of each approach for your specific situation.

Will I Have Permanent Numbness After the Procedure?

While temporary numbness or altered sensation in the lower lip and chin is expected following nerve repositioning, permanent changes are uncommon when the procedure is performed by a specialist with Dr. Johnson’s expertise. Most patients experience gradual improvement over several weeks to months, with complete or near-complete return of normal sensation. During your consultation, Dr. Johnson will discuss this risk thoroughly so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

Visit Us in St. Augustine

St. Augustine Oral & Facial Surgical Center is ideally situated at 1301 Plantation Island Dr. Suite #101, St. Augustine, FL 32080, making us easily accessible for patients throughout St. Augustine and surrounding communities.