Procedures
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic Surgery Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of orthognathic surgery, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to orthognathic surgery are discussed.
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What is corrective jaw surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery, more formally known as orthognathic surgery, is a procedure carried out to reposition one or both jaws in order to bring the teeth together into a normal relationship. It is carried out with a team approach with you, your orthodontist, and your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Who needs orthognathic surgery?
Patients who have a significant discrepancy in growth between their jaws, and who have been identified by their dentist or orthodontist as a potential candidate for orthognathic surgery, are often referred to an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon for evaluation. Based on this evaluation, the surgeon will determine the need for surgery to correct the discrepancy. For some patients, orthodontics alone can correct the discrepancy. For others,, the only way to adequately treat the problem is through surgery.
Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:
- difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
- speech problems
- chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- open bite
- protruding jaw
- breathing problems
What is the recovery time?
Most patients go back to school or work between 2–4 weeks after surgery. For six weeks postoperatively, you can not chew food at all, in order to give the jaw bone time to heal.
Orthognathic Surgery Overview
For a brief narrated overview of the orthognathic surgery process, please click the image on the right. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about orthognathic surgery.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
Will my insurance pay for this surgery?
After your evaluation appointment with our surgeon, our financial coordinator will discuss with you the fees associated with the surgery and the particulars of your insurance coverage. In many instances, coverage for orthognathic surgery is excellent. We are very experienced in helping our patients receive the maximum benefit due them from their insurance carrier.
What are the benefits of orthognathic surgery?
For some people, the biggest benefit to the surgery is the ability to have their teeth meet properly. In most cases, patients experience a very favorable change in their facial appearance and balance. The goal is to achieve a functioning bite and excellent facial esthetics.
Do I have to wear braces?
Yes. The braces are placed, and your orthodontist will move the teeth in preparation for the surgery. The braces stay on during the surgery and for at least 3–6 months after the surgery.
Will my jaws be wired shut?
With the current available technology, wiring of the jaws is not normally required.
What types of problems are treated with corrective jaw surgery?
The most common problems treated with orthognathic surgery include a protruding or excessively large lower jaw, a small or retruded lower jaw or chin, an upper jaw that is too narrow, and open bite, where the teeth do not touch at all. Orthognathic surgery does not specifically treat "TMJ" disease or pain. However, as a side benefit, many patients whose teeth never met properly before the surgery, experience a decrease in discomfort.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, your oral surgeon 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.