If you have issues with your dental bite, obstructive sleep apnea, or TMJ disorders, you may benefit from corrective jaw surgery. Known as orthognathic surgery, these procedures realign the jaws to improve breathing, chewing, and speech, as well as relieve severe discomfort.
The orthognatic surgery process may take a few years to complete and has a lengthy recovery period. Still, many orthodontic patients find it worthwhile because it can dramatically improve their oral and physical wellness. Many patients also report being happier with their appearance after orthognathic surgery.
5 Signs You May Need Orthognathic Surgery
1. Difficulty Chewing, Swallowing, or Biting Food
If your jaws meet improperly, you may have difficulty applying the correct bite pressure to your food. You may have to restrict your diet to foods you can easily chew, which can lead to a lack of proper nutrition.
2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea
One cause of this dangerous condition is a narrow jaw. A narrow jaw constricts the airway, allowing the tongue to fall backward and block it. These breathing interruptions lead to a lack of oxygen throughout the body, including the brain. They have links to diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke, among other conditions. If you suspect sleep apnea, visit your primary care doctor for a referral to a sleep specialist and mention this to your orthodontist and oral surgeon.
3, Excessive Tooth Wear from a Misaligned Bite
If your dentist notices you have prematurely worn teeth, they will check your bite for issues. If you have jaw irregularities, they may recommend seeing an orthodontist and an oral surgeon. Worn teeth can cause discomfort and tooth damage, which could lead to an abscess or a root canal. You may also place excess stress on any existing dental restorations, such as crowns and bridges.
4. Facial Imbalance Related to Injury or Birth Defects
Many patients who opt for orthognathic surgery feel unhappy with their facial appearance. Jaw issues can cause a receding chin, a severe bite issue, or a protruding jaw.
5. Dry Mouth from Prolonged Mouth Breathing
Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Jaw Surgery is a Multi-Step Process
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontists generally use metal braces to reposition your teeth and prepare them for the beneficial changes to your jaw. Properly aligning your teeth is essential to ensure a successful surgery. You will likely wear braces for six to nine months before your procedure.
Jaw Surgery
After your teeth reach their ideal pre-surgical positions, your orthodontist and oral surgeon will schedule your procedure. You will receive appropriate sedation or anesthesia depending on your needs. During the procedure, your oral surgeon will make minor cuts in your jawbone, usually inside your mouth.
The surgeon expertly moves the jaw to its final position. They may need to alter your bone structure in order to complete the surgery. Afterward, your jaw will need to be secured by wires, plates, or screws to allow healing. Building healthy bone tissue takes time, and you will need to practice patience. Care for your surgical site exactly as directed to avoid complications and infection.
You will receive a splint to place over your teeth to keep them stable while the bone and incisions heal.
Recovery from Orthognathic Surgery
Recovering from this procedure takes several months. Directly after surgery, you may experience discomfort, bruising, minor bleeding, or swelling. Cool compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers generally help with the discomfort. Start with soft foods and gradually add your regular diet as comfort allows.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthognathic Surgery
Do I have to wear braces after jaw surgery?
Most patients wear braces for an additional 6 months after surgery. They switch to a removable appliance after this point in the healing process.
Can I prevent my child from needing jaw surgery in the future?
Yes, in some cases, early orthodontic treatment with space maintainers, palatal expanders, and other appliances can alter the jaw's shape and the child's dental bite to the point where they will not need surgery as an adult.
At Hass Family Orthodontics, we work with trusted local oral surgeons to perform complex procedures, such as orthognathic surgery. If you experience any of these five signs, see your orthodontist right away for an evaluation. Please get in touch with us with further questions or to schedule a consultation.