Orthognathic Surgery or Corrective Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is a commonly performed procedure specifically for patients whose jaws do not meet correctly, creating an improper bite and misalignment of the jaw. For some individuals, the problem can be corrected without jaw surgery with their orthodontist. In more severe cases, the orthodontist will need to work with an oral surgeon to correct the bite with orthognathic surgery.
Why do I need corrective jaw surgery?
Misaligned jaws can cause a multitude of problems inside the mouth as well as to the facial structure, including
- The inability to properly chew and grind food
- Digestive problems
- Dental crowding
- Poor oral hygiene
- Increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease
- Shorter tooth lifespan
- Snoring and sleep apnea
- The inability to fully close the lips
- Heavy breathing
- Impaired speech function
- Poor facial aesthetics
Many of these problems can have serious consequences on the overall health of the mouth and face. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that irregularities of the jaw are diagnosed and treated early to reduce the risks of this condition.
While the goal of orthognathic surgery is to correct the functional problem with the jaw, this procedure also results in improved aesthetics and facial proportions.
Patients who elect to undergo corrective jaw surgery can expect to see several benefits, including
- Improved chewing, speech, and respiratory function
- Decreased likelihood of short- and long-term relapse
- Enhanced facial harmony, balance, and aesthetic appearance
- Minimal treatment time
The surgical team at Oral & Facial Surgery Institute of Houston is uniquely trained, and they are experts at performing corrective jaw surgery. They thoroughly enjoy seeing the positive transformations and results that follow orthognathic treatment.
Am I a candidate for corrective jaw surgery?
Many patients who are candidates for orthognathic surgery are already aware of the problem, but they do not know that there is a treatment to correct the issue. If you experience any of the following problems, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery:
- Receding or protruding chin
- Significantly protruding upper or lower jaw
- Abnormal bite
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Receding chin
- Difficulty closing your lips comfortably
If you think that you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, we encourage you to contact our office. Dr. Johnson has undergone extensive surgical education and training that makes him qualified to examine and treat abnormalities of the facial skeleton. If he determines you are a candidate, he will work hand in hand with your orthodontist to plan and execute your procedure.
When you elect to undergo orthognathic surgery, your orthodontist will prepare your jaw beforehand with braces. Dr. Johnson will then separate your jaw, move the separated bones to their new positions, and secure them in place. After surgery, your orthodontist will make any small, fine corrections needed to finish the bite before removing your braces.
If you think you may be in need of this procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our office in Houston, TX. Our well-trained office staff and highly skilled surgical team are happy to help in any way possible to restore your oral function.
More Information about Orthognathic (Corrective Jaw) Surgery:
Wikipedia – Corrective Jaw Surgery Information
AAOMS – Corrective Jaw Surgery Information