From the Research
Oral surgeons do not typically restore nerve function for teeth, but they may address nerve damage in the facial region, particularly the trigeminal nerve or inferior alveolar nerve, following trauma or surgical complications. When a tooth's nerve is damaged or dies, the standard treatment involves removing the dead or damaged nerve tissue and replacing it with a biocompatible filling material, usually performed by endodontists or general dentists through root canal therapy, not nerve restoration 1. Oral surgeons specialize in surgical procedures of the mouth, face, and jaw, such as tooth extractions, jaw surgery, and treatment of facial trauma. They may manage nerve injuries to facial structures, but this is different from restoring nerve function within teeth themselves. If you're experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity that suggests nerve damage, you should first consult with a general dentist who can assess the condition and refer you to the appropriate specialist, whether that's an endodontist for root canal therapy or an oral surgeon for other issues 2, 3. Some key points to consider include:
- The importance of early surgical exploration and débridement in reversing the side effects of endodontic treatment on the inferior alveolar nerve 1
- The relationship between the position of the extracted tooth and the incidence of inferior alveolar nerve and lingual nerve injuries 4
- The role of microsurgical repair in restoring acceptable neurosensory function after lingual nerve injury, with the best chance of success if done within 9 months of the injury 5 It's essential to prioritize the management of nerve injuries to minimize complications and improve patient outcomes, focusing on the prevention of nerve damage during oral surgical procedures and the timely referral to specialists when necessary 3, 4.