Corrective Jaw Surgery
What to Know About Jaw Misalignment
Jaw misalignment occurs when the upper and lower jaws don't line up properly. It can make chewing, speaking, or breathing more difficult and may cause jaw pain, headaches, or uneven wear on your teeth.
In some cases, misaligned jaws can contribute to sleep apnea or breathing issues during sleep. Misalignment can also increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay, also known as cavities. Corrective jaw alignment and bite adjustment help your teeth fit together better, improve jaw function, and support your oral health and overall well-being.
Types of Jaw Correction Surgeries
Corrective jaw surgery can involve one or both jaws, depending on your needs. Each type of surgery aims to improve alignment, comfort, and facial balance.
- Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy): A maxillary osteotomy repositions the upper jaw (maxilla) to correct issues such as an open bite, crossbite, or a jaw that sticks out or sits too far back. The procedure can also help reduce the amount of teeth showing when smiling.
- Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy): A mandibular osteotomy moves the lower jaw (mandible) forward or backward to correct underbites, overbites, or uneven jaw growth. The adjustment helps the teeth meet properly, making chewing and speaking easier.
- Double Jaw Surgery (Bimaxillary Osteotomy): A bimaxillary osteotomy corrects both the upper and lower jaws at the same time. The combined movement improves jaw alignment and enhances overall facial balance.
- Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): A genioplasty adjusts the position or shape of the chin to improve facial symmetry and profile. The procedure can be performed alone or with jaw surgery for more balanced results.
Who Benefits from Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Oral surgeons often recommend corrective jaw surgery for people who experience:
- Difficulty Biting or Chewing Food
- Chronic Jaw or TMJ pain
- Facial Imbalance or Asymmetry
- Open Bite or Underbite
- Breathing Problems
- Speech Difficulties
- Injury or Trauma
If you notice any of these issues, consulting an oral surgeon in Lavon, Texas can help determine if corrective jaw surgery is the right choice for you. Call (469) 209-4255 to schedule a consultation today.
What is the Corrective Jaw Surgery Process?
The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your jaw, teeth, and facial structure. Your surgeon will review your medical history, listen to your concerns, and discuss your goals to create a personalized treatment plan.
Jaw surgery often works together with orthodontic treatment, such as braces, to align your teeth. During surgery, the surgeon carefully repositions the jawbones and may reshape or adjust them for optimal fit and function. Some patients combine jaw surgery with other procedures, such as chin surgery, to improve facial balance. The surgery takes place in a hospital under anesthesia. Your hospital stay depends on the type of procedure, ranging from a same-day discharge for simple cases to one to four nights for more complex surgeries.
Recovery After Corrective Jaw Surgery
Recovery starts immediately after surgery, and your care team will support you every step of the way. Swelling, mild discomfort, and limited jaw movement are normal during the first few weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will provide clear instructions on diet, oral hygiene, and activity to aid healing.
Most patients start with a soft or liquid diet and gradually reintroduce solid foods as their jaw strength improves. Many experience increased comfort and better function within the first few weeks, but full recovery can take several months. Regular follow-up visits help track progress and ensure your bite remains properly aligned.
Why Choose Dental Care at Lake Lavon for Corrective Jaw Surgery in Lavon, Texas?
At Dental Care at Lake Lavon, our team listens to your goals and addresses any questions or concerns you may have. We combine expertise and careful planning to help you restore proper jaw function, achieve a comfortable bite, and improve facial balance.
Take the first step toward a healthier jaw and better oral health. Schedule your consultation for corrective jaw surgery in Lavon, Texas, by calling us at (469) 209-4255. We look forward to guiding you on the path to a more comfortable and confident life.
Corrective Jaw Surgery FAQs
Prior to your surgery, you will be administered sedation to keep you relaxed and comfortable during your procedure. To reduce discomfort and pain as sedation wears off once at home, your provider will give you post-op instructions, including any medications you may need to take.
If a misaligned jaw isn't treated, it can continue to cause issues such as bite problems, pain, trouble chewing, difficulty speaking, and speech problems, and it can become more difficult to treat as symptoms worsen.
The duration of corrective jaw surgery varies with the severity of the issues being corrected, but most procedures take only 2-3 hours. Before your surgery, your provider will give you an idea of what to expect on the day of surgery, including an estimate of how long your procedure will take.
Your provider will send you home with post-op instructions. Mild swelling and slight discomfort are common symptoms, but can be treated with pain medication from your doctor, as well as using ice packs on your face. It's important to follow your provider's instructions exactly to ensure proper healing.