JAW SURGERY
Jaw surgery is a critical component of orthodontic treatment for patients seeking substantial changes to their bite, smile, and facial profile. While the actual surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, orthodontic treatment is essential for achieving the best results. Let us guide you through the process below.
THE PROBLEM
Teeth are positioned within the upper and lower jawbones, which grow independently during development. If the growth of the jaws is balanced, orthodontists can typically align the teeth and achieve a good bite. However, if there is significant growth disparity between the jaws, achieving a healthy bite becomes much more challenging.
Orthodontic treatment during growth spurts can attempt to mitigate mild to moderate jaw discrepancies, but there are limits to how much teeth can be moved safely. In cases of severe jaw discrepancies with limited growth potential, orthodontics alone is insufficient for ideal results.
THE SOLUTION
BENEFITS OF JAW SURGERY
A two-hour surgery can often correct the bite more quickly than years of appliance use.
Proper jaw positioning results in a more balanced and natural-looking facial profile.
Teeth are moved to their correct positions, leading to stable, long-term outcomes.
Correct jaw alignment allows for a functional bite and optimal teeth positioning.
Forward or enlarged jaw movement can improve the airway, enhancing sleep quality and alleviating sleep apnea symptoms.
PROCESS AND RECOVERY
SURGERY PREPARATION
Preparation typically involves 12 to 15 months of orthodontic treatment to align teeth in their natural positions relative to the jawbones. During this period, it is normal for the jaw and bite discrepancy to become more pronounced, which emphasizes the importance of your commitment to the entire process. It is crucial not to abandon the treatment mid-way, as this could lead to adverse outcomes.
JAW SURGERY
The surgery is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia and can take 2 to 6 hours, depending on the procedure. Modern technology allows for precise planning using computer simulations. Most patients spend at least one night in the hospital, although some surgeries may be outpatient.
Surgery Types & Risks
Jaw surgeries include various procedures to move the upper jaw forward, upward, downward, or make it wider; move the lower jaw forward or backward; or reposition the chin. Common risks include bleeding, swelling, infection, and numbness, but these surgeries are generally predictable and routine, with over 95% of patients satisfied with their results.
Typical Recovery
Recovery times vary, but generally, patients need 2 to 6 weeks at home. Early recovery stages involve weakness, difficulty eating solid foods, muscle soreness, facial swelling, and intraoral bleeding. Modern techniques have reduced the need for being “wired shut,” but mouth opening is initially limited. Patients typically start with a liquid diet, progressing to protein shakes and soft foods by the end of the first week. Most swelling subsides after two weeks.
Appliances Post-Treatment
Orthodontic appliances remain in place after surgery to help settle the bite. Treatment continues for 6 to 12 months post-surgery, with the use of elastics to fine-tune teeth and jaw positioning. In some cases, surgery is performed at the beginning of the orthodontic process, known as the “surgery-first” approach, as determined by the oral surgeon.
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