Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure to correct various jaw and facial deformities. This type of surgery can significantly improve jaw function, enhance facial aesthetics, and address issues related to dental alignment. Jaw surgery in Wilmington, DE can benefit patients with functional and aesthetic jaw issues.
As a form of oral surgery, corrective jaw surgery helps realign the jaw for better function, comfort, and appearance. Fixing jaw misalignments can help you chew, speak, and breathe better. It can also reduce pain and make your face look more balanced. If you or someone you know is thinking about having jaw surgery, you want to learn what the surgery involves, who it can help, and what the process will be like. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and ready for the journey.
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure that repositions the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to achieve proper alignment. The primary goals of this surgery are to improve bite function, enhance facial symmetry, and resolve issues caused by jaw discrepancies.
Jaw surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in surgeries involving the mouth, jaws, and face. We may recommend this surgery for a variety of conditions, including:
Severe Overbite or Underbite
When your top teeth stick out too far over your bottom teeth (overbite), or your bottom teeth stick out past your top teeth (underbite), it can make it hard to chew, speak, or even close your mouth properly. Jaw surgery can fix these problems and make your bite more comfortable.
Facial Imbalances
If your face looks uneven or unbalanced because of your jaw position, surgery can help. It can correct issues with symmetry and create a more even, attractive look.
Jaw Pain or TMJ Issues
Jaw misalignment can cause pain in your jaw joints and muscles. This is often linked to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems. Surgery can realign the jaw to reduce or even stop this pain.
Breathing Problems and Sleep Apnea
Some people have trouble breathing, especially while sleeping, because their jaw blocks their airway. Jaw surgery can open up the airway and help treat conditions like sleep apnea.
Small or Receding Chin (Hypoplasia)
A small chin can affect appearance and breathing. Corrective jaw or chin surgery can move the bone forward to improve the way the face looks and functions. It may also be part of a treatment plan for children or teens with growth problems.
Bite Correction
Sometimes, braces alone can’t fix bite issues. Jaw surgery can move the upper and lower jaws into the right position. This helps improve chewing, speech, and jaw movement, and can stop problems like uneven tooth wear or TMJ pain.
Distraction Osteogenesis
This special surgery slowly lengthens the jawbone. The surgeon makes a small cut in the bone and uses a tool to gently move the pieces apart. As they move, new bone grows in the gap. This technique helps fix jaw deformities, improve facial symmetry, and even create space for dental implants.
Bite Correction
Bite correction through jaw surgery helps realign the upper and lower jaw when orthodontics alone isn’t enough. This procedure improves chewing, speech, and overall jaw function while relieving issues like TMJ pain or bite misalignment. Surgical correction creates a more balanced bite, preventing excessive wear and long-term joint strain.
Distraction Osteogenesis
Distraction osteogenesis is a surgical technique that can gradually lengthen bone in the jaw or facial area. The surgeon makes a small cut in the bone and uses a tool to gently move the pieces apart. As they move, new bone grows in the gap. This technique helps fix jaw deformities, improve facial symmetry, and even create space for dental implants.
Who Can Benefit from Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery can help many people with different needs and conditions. This type of surgery is often used to fix problems with the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. It can also improve your appearance, speech, eating, and breathing.
Jaw surgery can benefit:
- Teenagers and Young Adults: Many patients need jaw surgery in their late teens or early adulthood. This is because the jaw must be fully developed before surgery can give long-lasting results. If done too early, the jaw might still grow and change, which could affect the outcome.
- People Born with Jaw Problems: Some people are born with jaw conditions, such as a cleft lip or palate. These issues can affect both appearance and how the mouth works. Surgery can help fix these problems and improve both function and confidence.
- People with Facial Injuries: Accidents or trauma to the face can cause the jaw to become misaligned. Surgery may be needed in these cases to restore proper jaw function and appearance.
- Those with Ongoing Dental Problems: If you have trouble chewing, speaking, or keeping your teeth clean because your jaw is out of alignment, surgery may help. Corrective jaw surgery can make daily tasks like eating and brushing your teeth easier and more comfortable.
- Individuals Who Want to Improve Jaw Appearance: Some people choose jaw surgery to create a more balanced facial appearance. A misaligned jaw can affect the way your face looks. Surgery can help improve your profile and boost your self-esteem.
It’s essential for individuals considering jaw surgery to consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. They will evaluate your specific situation, including your dental and medical history, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
What to Expect During the Process
Understanding the jaw surgery process can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you for what lies ahead. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
Initial Consultation
The journey begins with a thorough consultation. During this appointment, the surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and take necessary imaging tests, such as X-rays or 3D scans, to assess your jaw structure and alignment. The surgeon will discuss your goals, explain the surgical procedure, and outline potential risks and benefits.
Pre-Surgical Preparation
Once you and your surgeon have decided to proceed with surgery, you’ll develop a comprehensive plan. This plan may include:
- Orthodontic Treatment: Most patients need braces or other orthodontic tools before surgery. These help straighten your teeth and get your bite in the right position. This part of the process can take several months or even a couple of years.
- Changes to Your Diet: To help your body stay strong and healthy before surgery, you may need to change your diet. We may recommend that you ask you to eat softer foods. You can also focus on eating healthy meals to prepare for recovery.
- Pre-Surgery Instructions: Our surgeon will give you clear instructions to follow before surgery. This might include when to stop eating or drinking, which medicines to take or avoid, and how to get ready for the day of the procedure.
The Surgery
Jaw surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. Depending on the complexity of the case, the length of the surgery can vary from two to five hours.
During the surgery, the surgeon will make incisions in the gums to access the jawbones. The upper and/or lower jaw will be repositioned for proper alignment. In some cases, bone grafts may be used to enhance stability and support. Once the adjustments are made, the surgeon will secure the jaws using plates, screws, or wires, and the incisions will be closed.
Recovery After Jaw Surgery in Wilmington, DE
Recovery from jaw surgery is a critical phase that requires attention and care. Here’s what to expect during the recovery process:
Initial Recovery
You may expect some swelling and discomfort directly after treatment. We’ll prescribe pain medications to help manage any pain during the initial recovery. You’ll eat a soft diet for several weeks post-surgery. You may start with liquids and gradually introduce soft foods as healing progresses.
Follow-Up Appointments
We’ll recommend regular follow-up appointments so we can monitor you as you heal. We also want to ensure your jaw is in proper alignment. We’ll assess your progress during these visits and adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Full Recovery
Complete recovery from jaw surgery can take several weeks to months. While the initial swelling and discomfort will subside within a few weeks, it may take longer for your jaw to heal completely. We recommend that you follow post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery.
Like any surgical procedure, jaw surgery carries some risks. While serious complications are rare, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues, which may include infection, nerve damage, or a stiff jaw.
Although rare, infections can occur at the surgical site. Proper oral hygiene and following post-operative care instructions can help minimize this risk. Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in sensation in the lower lip, chin, or tongue. Most cases resolve over time, but it’s important to discuss this with your surgeon.
Some stiffness or discomfort in the jaw may occur during the healing process. But physical therapy can help improve mobility and flexibility.
Schedule an Appointment
Is your jaw not fully developed? Do you have a jaw injury? You can get corrective jaw surgery in Wilmington, DE, to live more comfortably. Call Dr. Campbell for a consultation today at 302-335-6123. You can also request an appointment online.