In some cases, the jaw simply does not line up properly with the top portion of teeth. When this occurs, you'll find it difficult to eat and chew easily while having difficulties talking, breathing and swallowing. You may feel badly about your appearance and will even notice that your dental health is at risk because of excessive grinding and clenching. Corrective jaw surgery may seem like a scary prospect to some, but it is incredibly beneficial to improving your oral and facial health.
We will work with your dentist and orthodontist to devise a plan concerning orthognathic surgery. By working with a team, we can create a special treatment plan that is unique to you. You will normally be out of school or work for roughly 10 days after the actual procedure. The bracketing, clips and wiring will be removed after about 12 weeks as your jaw is permanently re-positioned.
The surgery first involves a series of x-rays and complex images. These images allow us to create a unique treatment plan to ensure a successful surgery. We then put you under general sedation so that you are fully asleep for the procedure. Next, we make small incisions through the jaw bone and a series of plates, screws and metal wires are used to bring the jaw into the proper position. You will wake up from surgery and will need to have someone bring you home safely. Aftercare instructions will help to promote even, quick and successful healing and scarring is minimal because the work is primarily done within the mouth.