Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)
Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and/or teeth don't seem to fit within the jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics first and then corrective jaw surgery repositions the misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly. As a second bonus from the surgery, the facial profile becomes more symmetric.
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, appearance, and self confidence. 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 they are not in the proper alignment. This is seen in patients that have a lower jaw that sticks out to far or may be to far back.
Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:
- Difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
- Speech problems
- Open bite
- Large lower jaw
- Incorrectly aligned upper and/or lower jaws
- Breathing problems
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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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/oral and maxillofacial surgical team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Dr. Stamboulieh 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.
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