Atypical Incisive Nerve: Clinical Report

A 68-year-old Caucasian man complained of discomfort from two implants placed in the anterior mandibular area. Examination of cross-sectional computerized tomography images revealed the passage of a distinct structure, surrounded by cortical bone, which extended from the right mental foramen anteriorly and passed through the lower part of the right and left implants. The structure, which was identified as the incisive nerve, also emerged from the left mental foramen and advanced toward the midline. This nerve plexus is usually delicate and not detectable by conventional radiography or computerized tomography. The possibility of nerve variations in the anterior region of the mandible must be considered to prevent possible trauma to the adjacent tissues when placing implants.