After placing implants near the mental nerve, what should a clinician do if a patient reports numbness and pain post-operatively?

When a patient reports numbness and pain after implant placement near the mental nerve, it's crucial to recognize that some postoperative sensations, including numbness or discomfort, can be common. Nerve injuries, particularly to the mental nerve, can occur during dental surgeries, and it may take time for nerve function to return to normal.

Reassuring the patient is an important part of patient management in this scenario. While monitoring is advised, it is done in conjunction with educating the patient about what they might experience. It is vital to differentiate between normal postoperative symptoms and those that might indicate a more serious complication. Monitoring involves keeping a close eye on the recovery process while providing guidance to the patient regarding expected outcomes.

In contrast, taking a radiograph to confirm implant position is typically done before surgery or when there are clear indications of positioning issues. Switching antibiotics might not address the primary concern of nerve irritation or damage and is not warranted without clear signs of infection. Contacting the malpractice carrier is premature and could be avoidable if proper steps are taken in managing the patient's symptoms and communication. Assuring and monitoring align with best practices for patient care and managing expectations surrounding recovery.