Orthognathic surgery

What Are the Steps of Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery usually starts with an appliance like braces, which can help align the teeth and jaws as much as possible before the procedure. It’s worth noting that this step can get you closer to your goals, which will make it easier for the surgeon to finish the job.

After the prep work is complete, the surgeon will schedule the surgery. The first step is to make incisions along the gums. They’ll need to cut into the bone to get to the jaw. Once the jaw has been repositioned, the surgeon will use plates and screws to hold it in place. This procedure has been known to fix severe jaw deformities but can also help treat anything from missing teeth to sleep apnea to TMJ.

How Long Will It Take to Recover After Surgery?

The recovery period can take a few weeks up to a few months. The dentist may also have their patients fitted with braces to complete the finishing touch-ups. This is the last step of the surgery, and it may take up to a year to finalize. The good news is that the transformation can be literally life-changing.

Schedule an Evaluation for Your Misaligned Bite Today

It takes a skilled surgeon to determine whether orthognathic surgery is right for their patient. When there are a number of other oral treatments available to correct a person’s bite, it’s important to make the right decision. If you want to learn more, contact the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston at 281-491-4545 or complete a contact form online.

The post Can Orthognathic Surgery Correct My Bite? appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

Explore some of the top benefits you may experience from undergoing corrective jaw surgery with one of our skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Improved Functionality

Corrective jaw surgery can improve a wide range of jaw functions, such as opening and closing the mandible, chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Patients who suffer from chronic respiratory infections or sleep apnea due to jaw alignment can find relief through surgical intervention.

Moreover, corrective jaw surgery also helps correct the alignment of teeth (bite). A natural bite allows you to chew and speak with ease; while you may still need some orthodontic treatment after surgery to address crowding, the first step toward achieving a great bite is by making sure the jaw is properly positioned.

Some patients are born with congenital jaw deformities that require surgical intervention; through this process, they can achieve an appropriate bite and alignment, and qualify for additional treatments to improve the position of their teeth.

Enhanced Facial Aesthetics

A disproportionate jaw can be a source of insecurity for some patients. By undergoing corrective jaw surgery, the jaw can be brought into greater alignment and restore balance and harmony with the rest of your facial features.

With a more symmetrical facial structure, many patients are much happier with their overall appearance.

Extended Tooth Lifespan

A misaligned jaw can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which may lead to infection and premature tooth loss. The primary reason is that jaw misalignment makes it more difficult for patients to brush and floss properly. By addressing these concerns from a surgical standpoint, patients can ensure greater access to their teeth and a lifetime of better oral health.

Book a Consultation With a Surgeon

The team at the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston is among the best in their field; you can always expect compassionate care and support for all your oral health needs. Dr. Johnson is a skilled orthognathic surgeon who can provide the right treatment for any misalignment or facial abnormality.

Please contact the institute today by calling (281) 491-4545.

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