Corrective Jaw Surgery
Who Needs Corrective Jaw Surgery
This procedure is recommended when the jaws don't align properly, either because of natural growth, environmental influences, or trauma to the face. Corrective jaw surgery will help save teeth from abnormal wear, improve facial appearance, and allow for proper alignment so you can bite and chew comfortably. This may also be useful in addressing sleep apnea and breathing problems, TMJ, speech problems, or a protruding jaw. Orthognathic surgery is used when orthodontics alone will not be effective.
Orthognathic Surgery Procedure
The oral surgeons at Center for Oral Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Implants use state-of-the-art computer techniques and three-dimensional models to help explain what will happen during your surgery. During your consultation, your surgeon will explain the benefits of the surgery and may use comprehensive x-rays or models to show you how the surgery may change your facial appearance. You'll discuss the process, the anesthesia to be used, and the recovery.
Surgery
During the surgery, the bones of one or both jaws are repositioned to a healthier, better-functioning position. This surgery requires a general anesthetic, and, in most cases, it is performed in a hospital setting. While this can at times be done as an out-patient procedure, there are times where it may require a one or two-night stay.
Our oral surgeons will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist before, during, and after the surgery. Orthodontic braces are typically used both before and after the surgery to straighten teeth and properly align the dental arches.
Recovery
You will probably be advised to recover at home for the first week, and may experience symptoms such as swelling, soreness, sinus congestion and general discomfort related to the surgery. We will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help with your recovery, and recommend a liquid diet for a short period of time. Once your mouth has completed the initial healing process, orthodontic treatment will be used to complete the final positioning of your teeth.
