Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is a procedure that corrects a number of different skeletal and dental issues that aren't that easy to fix, even with the most up to date dental techniques. These issues can range from a wisdom tooth extraction to reconstructive surgery. With orthognathic surgery, Rekos & Border Oral Surgery, can correct your dental and jaw issues, and restore the function of your mouth.
Who needs orthognathic surgery?
If you have issues with your jaw or the alignment of your teeth, and these issues cause you difficulty with normal, everyday functions (eating, speaking, or even sleeping), orthognathic surgery may be right for you. Surgery is often performed after orthodontic treatments were used, but were unsuccessful. For instance, if you were given braces to realign your teeth, but it is really your jaw that is the issue, orthognathic surgery can be used to correct your jaw.
Orthognathic surgery can be used to correct a number of different issues, including:
• | Open bites. |
• | Over or underbites (malocclusions). |
• | Chronic jaw pain, or pain at the joint (a condition known as TMD). |
• | Obstructive sleep apnea, when other treatment methods have failed. |
• | Chronic mouth breathing. |
• | Your face appears unbalanced. |
• | Cleft palate or other congenital defects. |
• | Facial trauma. |
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
There are several benefits to orthognathic surgery:
• | Pain relief. |
• | It becomes easier to eat and speak. |
• | Better overall health, and a result of improved alignment (better digestion.) |
• | Improved sleep. |
• | Lessening of headaches. |
• | Improved appearance, and therefore more confidence. |
Surgical Procedure
Before you have orthognathic surgery, we must first conduct a consultation to determine if surgery is truly the best option for you. We will perform a thorough oral exam, complete with x-rays and any other imaging that might be needed, such as a CAT scan or an MRI. If orthognathic surgery is determined to be necessary, we will develop a treatment plan based on your specific needs. In some instances, this may include orthodontic work first, in order to correct the alignment of your teeth.
On the day of your surgery, you will be administered a local anesthetic at the surgical site. Depending upon your surgery, you may also be given general anesthesia as well. It could take anywhere from one hour to several hours to complete.
After incisions are made, which provides access to your jawbone, we work to correct your specific issue. Bone may be added, removed or reshaped. You may require the use of metal plates and screws or wires. Once the jawbone is set, we clean the area and close the wounds.
After your surgery, you will need to take sufficient time to rest and heal. You will be provided with a set of specific instructions to help you know what to expect and how to deal with postsurgical effects, such as pain, swelling and bleeding. You should stick to a diet of soft foods for at least a couple of days and avoid strenuous activities for at least a week. Once you have recovered from jaw surgery, you will be able to enjoy all of the benefits that it has to offer.
Rekos & Border Oral Surgery are experts in correcting a wide variety of dental and jaw issues, improving the function and health of your mouth. Want to know if you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery? If you're located in Dublin or the surrounding Columbus metro area, call (614) 764-9455 today to schedule your consultation!