Question 1

What is a nerve injury in the context of dental implant surgery?

Accepted Answer

Nerve injury is a rare complication where a nerve is damaged during the implant placement procedure. This most commonly involves the inferior alveolar nerve, which provides sensation to the lower lip, chin, and teeth.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of a nerve injury from implant surgery?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, burning, or altered sensation (paresthesia) in the lower lip, chin, or tongue. In some cases, it can cause pain or difficulty with speech.

Question 3

How can nerve injury be prevented?

Accepted Answer

Prevention is paramount and relies on meticulous planning. This includes using 3D CBCT scans to map the exact location of the nerve and utilizing guided surgery techniques for precise implant placement.

Question 4

What is a CBCT scan and why is it crucial for preventing nerve injury?

Accepted Answer

A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan provides a detailed 3D image of your jaw, allowing the surgeon to see the exact path of the nerve and plan the implant placement to avoid it.

Question 5

What is nerve lateralization?

Accepted Answer

Nerve lateralization is a highly specialized surgical procedure where the inferior alveolar nerve is carefully moved aside to create space for an implant. It is only performed in specific cases by experienced oral surgeons.

Question 6

What causes nerve injury during implant surgery?

Accepted Answer

The primary cause is direct trauma to the nerve from the surgical drill or the implant itself. This risk is highest when there is insufficient bone height above the nerve canal.

Question 7

How common is nerve injury during implant placement?

Accepted Answer

Permanent nerve injury is a very rare complication, especially when the surgery is performed by an experienced specialist using modern 3D imaging for planning.

Question 8

What is the treatment if a nerve injury occurs?

Accepted Answer

Management depends on the severity. It may involve medication to reduce inflammation, close monitoring (as many injuries heal on their own), or in some cases, microsurgical repair of the nerve.

Question 9

Can nerve damage from implant surgery be permanent?

Accepted Answer

While most nerve sensations return over time, permanent damage is possible, though rare. The prognosis depends on the extent of the injury and the timeliness of treatment.

Question 10

How does an experienced surgeon minimize the risk of nerve injury?

Accepted Answer

An experienced surgeon minimizes risk by conducting thorough pre-operative planning with 3D scans, choosing the correct implant size, and using precise surgical techniques, such as guided surgery.

Nerve Injury in Dental Implant Surgery

Understanding Nerve Injury

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