Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery or surgical orthodontics, is a specialized treatment used to improve the alignment and function of the jaws. While orthodontic treatment can correct many bite and alignment concerns, some patients have jaw discrepancies that cannot be fully treated with braces or clear aligners alone. Orthognathic surgery works together with orthodontic treatment to improve the way the teeth, jaws, and facial structures function and fit together.
When is orthognathic surgery needed?
Patients who may benefit from orthognathic surgery often experience functional issues in addition to cosmetic concerns. Some signs that corrective jaw surgery may be appropriate include:
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting: If the jaws do not align correctly, it can make chewing uncomfortable or inefficient. Patients may struggle to bite into foods or feel that their teeth do not meet properly.
- Jaw Pain or TMJ Discomfort: Jaw imbalance can place excess strain on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), leading to chronic discomfort, headaches, or muscle tension.
- Speech Concerns: Certain jaw positions can affect speech clarity and pronunciation.
- Facial Imbalance: Patients may notice that the chin appears too prominent or recessed, or that the face appears asymmetrical.
- Sleep and Breathing Issues: Jaw positioning can contribute to airway obstruction, mouth breathing, and some forms of sleep-disordered breathing.
- Severe Bite Problems: Orthognathic surgery is often recommended for significant underbites, overbites, open bites, and skeletal crossbites.
Dr. Jenkins partners with outstanding Oral Surgeons in our local community to help patients with their life-changing surgical treatment to improve oral health, facial balance, chewing ability, speech, breathing, and overall comfort and quality of life. Contact our office if you would like to find out more information regarding corrective jaw surgery. We can help restore your confidence and leave you smiling for years to come.