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Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure performed to correct severe jaw misalignments and skeletal discrepancies that affect facial aesthetics, dental function, and overall oral health. The surgery involves the precise repositioning of the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to improve bite alignment and facial symmetry and alleviate conditions such as malocclusions, TMJ disorders, facial asymmetry, and sleep apnea.
The benefits of jaw surgery include enhanced facial aesthetics, improved bite function, relief from TMJ symptoms, correction of breathing problems associated with sleep apnea, and long-term dental stability. It offers transformative outcomes by addressing functional and aesthetic concerns, restoring oral health, and significantly enhancing quality of life for patients experiencing severe jaw issues.
The Jaw Surgery Procedure
The process typically begins with a thorough consultation performed by one of our oral and maxillofacial surgeons. During this consultation, detailed examinations, including X-rays, CT scans, and 3D imaging, may be conducted to assess the extent of the jaw irregularities and plan the surgical approach. The surgeon will also discuss the patient’s medical history, dental concerns, and treatment goals. A comprehensive treatment plan will be developed to address functional and aesthetic issues, including correcting bite alignment, improving facial symmetry, and enhancing airway function.
On the day of the surgery, the patient is placed under anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The surgeon makes precise incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones, avoiding visible scars on the face. Depending on the specific correction needed, the jawbones are carefully repositioned, reshaped, or augmented using specialized techniques. This may involve cutting and repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both jaws simultaneously to achieve proper alignment and function.
Once the jaws are repositioned into their new alignment, small titanium screws, plates, or wires are used to secure the bones in place. These fixation devices stabilize the jawbones during the initial healing process. The surgical incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures, and the mouth is typically packed with gauze to control bleeding and facilitate initial healing.
Following jaw surgery, patients are monitored closely in recovery to ensure stability and manage any immediate post-operative discomfort. Pain management medications are prescribed to alleviate discomfort, and antibiotics may be administered to prevent infection. Patients are advised to initially maintain a liquid or soft food diet to avoid stressing the healing jawbones. Swelling and bruising around the face and neck are common and typically peak within the first few days before gradually subsiding over the following weeks.
Recovery from jaw surgery varies among individuals but generally involves gradually returning to normal activities over several weeks to months. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing progress, remove any fixation devices as necessary, and assess the alignment of the jaws and teeth. Physical therapy and orthodontic adjustments may be recommended to optimize jaw function and achieve the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes. Call us to learn more.
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The Benefits of Jaw Surgery
The Benefits of Jaw Surgery Corrects Misalignment
Orthognathic surgery corrects misalignments of the upper and lower jaws, known as malocclusions. The surgery improves bite function by repositioning the jaws into proper alignment, enabling more efficient chewing, biting, and speaking. This correction reduces excessive wear on teeth and alleviates strain on the jaw joints (temporomandibular joints), potentially reducing the risk of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Improves Facial Symmetry
Jaw surgery in Carrollton, GA, Alabaster, AL, Anniston, AL, and Gadsden, AL, can significantly improve facial symmetry and proportions. It corrects facial imbalances caused by protruding or receding jaws, creating a more harmonious appearance. Patients often experience a more balanced profile, reduced prominence of the chin or nose, and improved overall facial aesthetics.
Improves Breathing
Orthognathic surgery can help improve breathing during sleep for individuals with jaw abnormalities that restrict the airway, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). By repositioning the jaws and expanding the airway, surgery may reduce or eliminate symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and episodes of interrupted breathing.
Addresses Functional Issues
Severe jaw misalignments can lead to functional problems such as difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking clearly. Jaw surgery addresses these functional impairments, restoring proper oral function and enhancing overall quality of life. Patients often experience an improved ability to eat a wider variety of foods and speak more clearly following surgery.
Supports Long-Term Oral Health
Proper jaw alignment supports long-term dental health. Orthodontic treatment is often combined with jaw surgery to ensure teeth fit together correctly after surgery. This alignment reduces the risk of dental issues such as tooth wear, cavities, and gum disease, which can occur when teeth are improperly aligned.
Improves Confidence
Correcting jaw abnormalities can profoundly impact self-esteem and confidence. Many patients report feeling more confident in their appearance and more comfortable in social and professional settings after surgery. Enhanced facial aesthetics and improved oral function contribute to a positive self-image and overall well-being.
Long-Term Results
Orthognathic surgery aims to achieve stable, long-term results. The repositioned jaws are secured with titanium plates, screws, or wires during surgery to maintain stability during the healing process. With proper post-operative care and adherence to treatment plans, the corrected jaw position typically remains stable over time, providing lasting benefits.
Jaw surgery is a transformative procedure that can significantly improve oral function, facial harmony, and quality of life for individuals with severe jaw abnormalities. Visit Community Oral Facial Surgery at our multiple locations: 420 1st St N, Alabaster, AL 35007; 901 Leighton Ave #401, Anniston, AL 36207; 101 Trojan Drive, Carrollton, GA 30117; and 817A Riverbend Dr, Gadsden, AL 35901, to explore treatment options and regain your confident smile. Schedule your appointment conveniently online or by calling (205) 208-0167, (256) 236-6090, (770) 832-8819, or (256) 547-5731.
