What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is a procedure that corrects irregularities within the jawbone. It realigns the jaws and teeth to improve functions and facial appearance.
Jaw surgery is for people who had been unsuccessful in fixing their facial issues through standard orthopedic solutions.
The surgery can repair dental and skeletal irregularities and improve a patient’s eating, chewing, and speaking. The procedure may also enhance a person’s appearance, although that is just a side effect. Orthognathic surgery aims to fix functional issues caused by jaw problems.
You may require orthognathic surgery if you have:
- An open bite
- Unbalanced facial structures
- Facial injuries or birth defects
- A receding lower jaw or chin
- Trouble chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Chronic TMJ pain or headaches
- A protruding jaw
- Chronic mouth breathing or sleep apnea
A qualified orthodontist will determine if you are suitable for jaw surgery. Depending on the severity of your jaw problems, the process could take numerous surgeries and orthodontic treatments until the procedure is complete.