Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended to treat severe jaw problems, which can include underbites, overbites, and crossbites. Jaw dysfunction can cause difficulty with eating, speaking, and even breathing, which is why it’s important to see an oral surgeon if you suffer from any of these conditions. When you visit our office in Bellaire, TX, we can determine the severity of your condition and decide whether jaw surgery is the right solution. In milder cases, you may only require nonsurgical intervention to correct your problems. During your consultation, we will discuss all of your options with you as well as our recommendation for optimal results.
How do I know if I need jaw surgery?
Jaw dysfunction is generally a result of uneven development of the upper and lower jaws. When one jaw develops quicker than the other, you may find yourself experiencing
- Difficulty chewing food
- Chronic jaw pain
- Breathing problems
- Trouble when opening or closing the mouth
- Constant bite problems
If you experience any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from an underbite or overbite, the most common forms of jaw dysfunction. In minor cases, the condition may be treatable with orthodontics or other behavioral modification, such as wearing a mouth guard. Severe cases or cases in which nonsurgical methods have already been tried, however, typically require jaw surgery.
What are the benefits of jaw surgery?
Undergoing surgery to correct your condition can dramatically improve your quality of life. Jaw dysfunction can cause both functional difficulties and a significant amount of pain. Corrective jaw surgery can
- Improve your ability to chew
- Decrease and sometimes eliminate pain/discomfort
- Improve breathing
- Correct tooth alignment and prevent excessive wear on teeth
In many cases, patients who undergo this surgery also report a boost in confidence after treatment is complete and their facial features have been balanced.
Jaw Surgery Procedure
The orthognathic surgery process involves both your oral surgeon and your orthodontist. It is one of the lengthier treatments in the oral and maxillofacial surgery, but it also results in some of the most extreme and life-changing outcomes. During your consultation, we will be sure to discuss every detail of your treatment to ensure you understand what to expect.
Treatment begins with your orthodontist installing your braces. Braces are needed in almost every instance because they shift your teeth into the proper position and prepare your jaws for surgery. Braces generally must be worn for 18–24 months; your surgery will occur around the middle of treatment.
During surgery, your oral surgeon will carefully separate your jaws and re-place them in the proper position. Once the jaws are aligned, he will keep them in place using small screws and plates. Over the next few months, your jaws will heal, and you will notice an improvement in your ability to eat, speak, and breathe. You will also feel more confident in your smile.
Orthognathic Surgery at Bellaire Facial, Oral & Dental Implant Surgery
Our doctors have undergone extensive training and are highly qualified to perform jaw surgery. If you suffer from chronic jaw pain or have been told you need surgical intervention for your condition, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at our office. We look forward to restoring your smile and providing you with life-changing results.
