Maxillofacial Procedures
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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Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and/or teeth don't seem to fit within the jaws. Teeth are first straightened or correctly moved with orthodontics (braces), and then corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only can improve facial appearance, but also enables the teeth to meet correctly and function properly.
Who Might Require 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 of the underlying bony structures 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 (front teeth don’t bite together)
- protruding jaw
- breathing problems, especially while sleeping
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.
Orthognathic Surgery Overview
For a brief narrated overview of the orthognathic surgery process, please click the image below. 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.
Technology and Orthognathic Surgery
Dr. Davis uses modern techniques and three-dimensional dental and skeletal models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays, Dr. Davis can show you how your bite will be improved. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed. The goal is to help you understand the potential benefits of orthognathic surgery.
If you are a candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery, Dr. Davis 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.
