The various embodiments of the present invention provide an inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) protector instrument for proper protection of neurovascular bundle and to prevent the traumatic injuries during oral and maxillofacial surgeries. The IAN protector instrument made of stainless steel has a shank, a blade and a handle. The shank is formed to serve as a soft tissue flap retractor while supporting the blade. The handle is designed with a finger rest for more control and in the pear shape for palm grasp. The shank is bent twice at 120 degrees. The blade is curved with a radius of curvature equal to ⅙-⅛ of a complete circle. The dissecting edge and both lateral line angles are rounded to avoid untoward cutting. The instrument is designed separately for right and left sides of the mouth.
