Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)

Orthognathic surgery is needed when the jaws don’t meet correctly and/or teeth don’t fit within the jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontic appliances, and corrective jaw surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?

Screenshot_1People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result may include a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw growth and alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. When jaw bones are misaligned, orthognathic surgery can properly reposition the jaws.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:

  • Difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
  • Speech problems
  • Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
  • Open bite
  • Jaw misalignment
  • Breathing problems

Any of these symptoms can be present from birth,acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or can result from trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be necessary to perform a complete examination with x-rays. Sometimes, the patient will have been referred by an orthodontist who has evaluated the patient and recognized a dental-facial deformity that requires a combination of orthodontics and orthognathic surgery. The orthodontist will send the patient’s pre-treatment records (e.g. x-rays, dental models) along with the patient’s diagnosis. The oral and maxillofacial surgeon will evaluate the patient and review the x-rays and dental models to design a surgical treatment plan. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.

Technology & Orthognathic Surgery

The doctors at Centrasota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, P.A. use modern computer techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed. Our goal is to help you understand the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, we will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.