Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw 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 a misaligned jaw. This not only improves the facial appearance but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?

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. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary.

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

Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or as a result of 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 can decide to proceed with treatment together.

Technology & Orthognathic Surgery

Dr. Rodenburg, Dr. MacMenamin, Dr. Brown, Dr. Burns, Dr. Shearen, Dr. Tyler or Dr. Capp use modern techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you’ll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed. Our goal is to help you understand the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, your oral surgeon here at The Oral Surgery Center 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Orthognathic Surgery

1. How do I know if I need orthognathic surgery?
If you experience issues like difficulty chewing, speaking, or frequent jaw pain, or if you have a noticeable facial imbalance, it’s best to consult with our oral and maxillofacial surgeons. They will perform a comprehensive evaluation and collaborate with your orthodontist to determine if surgery is necessary.

2. Is orthognathic surgery painful?
Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort following the surgery. Pain can typically be managed with prescribed medication, and swelling is common during the initial recovery period. While the surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia, the post-operative recovery may require time for the swelling to subside and for the jaw to heal.

3. How long is the recovery period after orthognathic surgery?
The initial recovery period usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks, during which you may need to follow a soft-food diet and avoid strenuous activities. Full recovery can take 6-12 months as your jaw heals and settles into its new position. During this time, follow-up appointments with both your surgeon and orthodontist are necessary to monitor progress.

4. Will I need braces before and after surgery?
Yes, orthodontic treatment is typically required both before and after the surgery. Braces are used to align your teeth in preparation for surgery, and after surgery, they help to fine-tune the bite for the final result. The timing of these phases will be determined by your orthodontist and oral surgeon.

5. What are the risks of orthognathic surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved, such as infection, nerve damage, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, complications are rare, and most patients experience successful outcomes. Your surgeon will explain these risks in detail and take measures to minimize them during your procedure.

6. How much does orthognathic surgery cost?
The cost of orthognathic surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case, geographic location, and whether additional treatments are required. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost if the surgery is deemed medically necessary. Your oral surgeon’s office can help you explore insurance options and payment plans.