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What is it?
Orthognathic surgery is also known as corrective jaw surgery. It is used to remedy a variety of abnormalities in which the facial bones and teeth develop incorrectly, resulting in the occurrence of either an underbite or overbite. These conditions lead to difficulty with chewing, speech, jaw function, and a compromised facial appearance.
Orthognathic surgery is normally done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. Sometimes, braces alone can correct a problem with the bite, but when it is severe, orthognathic surgery may be needed. Orthognathic surgery is performed in the hospital or outpatient surgical center. Patients generally stay in the hospital 1-2 nights, depending on the extent of surgery.
The areas that usually need correction are the maxilla (upper jaw), the mandible (lower jaw), and chin. Corrective jaw surgery involves moving one, two, or all of these areas to obtain the desired results.
New advances in orthodontics have also allowed the total treatment times to be shortened.
Most patients state that the post-operative discomfort is much less than they were expecting. The improvement in jaw function and facial appearance is remarkable, and in some instances, life altering. Most patients experience a great improvement in their self-confidence and quality of life after orthognathic surgery.
Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and/or teeth don't seem to fit with jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.
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Best Candidates
People 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 can be 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 alignment. While orthodontics alone can correct bite problems if only the teeth are involved, orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning.
Candidates with the following symptoms should be :
- difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
- speech problems
- chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- open bite
- protruding jaw
- breathing problems
- recessive (small) jaw
Any of these can exist at birth or may be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences or, trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
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