Overbites, underbites, open bites, and other forms of jaw misalignment can cause many oral health issues. In addition, a jaw that does not function the way it should tends to cause trouble with eating, speaking, and breathing. Nonsurgical methods may be recommended for minor jaw issues. However, major jaw issues will likely require jaw surgery. Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, surgically repositions the jaw into alignment for optimal function and aesthetics.
Jaw dysfunction can happen in many different ways, and to varying degrees of severity. A patient with an overbite or underbite—the most common types of jaw dysfunction—may only require orthodontic treatment. Patients with more severe symptoms may need jaw surgery. These symptoms may include
If you have severe jaw misalignment and are interested in seeking treatment, please contact us to schedule a consultation appointment with either Dr. Zarrinkelk, Dr. Siavash or Dr. Coppelson. As qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, they will provide a complete oral evaluation and determine if jaw surgery is the right treatment for you.
For many patients experiencing severe jaw issues, corrective jaw surgery improves their quality of life in a significant way. Some of the most common benefits of corrective jaw surgery include
Our practice loves to see how happy our patients are as a result of this life-changing surgery!
The goal of jaw surgery is to improve the function of the jaws by moving them into proper alignment. Orthognathic surgery can be extensive and is usually a joint effort between an oral surgeon and an orthodontist.
Braces are often the first step to preparing the teeth and jaws for surgery, by moving them into proper alignment. Braces are placed by an orthodontist. How long the braces are worn are up to the orthodontist, but many patients can expect to wear them for 18 to 24 months in total, with the jaw surgery occurring some time during treatment. When an oral surgeon performs corrective jaw surgery, they work to carefully separate the jaws and reposition them into their new, functional alignment using plates and screws.
Jaw surgery takes several months to heal. Improved eating, speaking, and breathing can be expected throughout the healing period. Pre- and post-operative instructions will be detailed to you in person to ensure a quick and comfortable recovery.
