Orthognathic Surgery

Corrective Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is usually needed for patients when there is poor alignment between the upper and lower jaws preventing the teeth from fitting adequately within the jaw. This condition often causes improper bite and could cause injury to the individual. The abnormality is usually corrected by straightening the teeth using orthodontics, and the misaligned jaw is repositioned during a corrective jaw surgery. The outcome is a healthy bite and function of the teeth and an improved facial appearance.

When is Orthognathic surgery needed?

Individuals with an improper bite, incorrectly positioned jaws, can benefit immensely from an orthognathic surgical procedure. Misalignment of the jaw bone usually results as a result of the disproportional growth of the upper and lower jaw at different rates, making either of them to grow faster than the other. The result can impact the patient’s chewing, biting, speech, and lifetime oral health issues and appearance. The same effect may also occur as a result of injury to the jaw during child delivery. Orthodontics can be sufficient for the correction of bite problems when only the teeth are affected. Still, if the jaws require repositioning, then a surgeon will be required to perform orthognathic surgery.

During your visit to our clinic, our Doctors will evaluate difficulties in the following areas:

  • Biting, Chewing, or swallowing
  • TMJ or Chronic jaw pain
  • Open teeth bite
  • Jaw protrusion
  • Difficulty in Breathing

The above difficulties can be present from birth or become acquired as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or due to traumatic events to the face. An x-ray is usually done as part of a pretreatment consultation, and you will be correctly informed about the details of your care, and all your questions will get the appropriate response. The dental team can then proceed to decide your treatment together with you.

Overview of the Orthognathic surgery procedure

Our experienced Doctors use the most modern computer guided techniques as well as 3D models to describe how your surgery will progress. Employing detailed facial X-rays and digital video images, we can explain to you the expected improvement in your bite and facial appearance. These images make it easier for you to understand the details and process of the treatment.

If you require jaw surgery, our doctors will team up with your dentist and orthodontists for the best quality care. The surgery can reposition your jaw and teeth to make it functional, efficient, attractive, and have a healthy dental-facial appearance.

A patient getting a panoramic x-ray of her jaw

What is involved?

  • Corrective jaw surgery usually involves months of careful preparation.
  • The actual surgery takes place in the hospital and can last for one to four hours.
  • A post-operative hospital stay of one to four days is typical for a patient to recover fully from the anesthesia and stress.
  • The patient has to keep the braces in place for six to twelve months after surgery before removal.
  • The recovery phase has the most significant impact of orthognathic surgery.
  • Patients may be out of work/school for two weeks or even a month after the surgery.
  • Patients may require two months before normal chewing function, and full capacity may require up to a year.
  • We ensure you get adequate care during and after surgery, and we schedule weekly appointments for up to two months following the surgery.