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Orthognathic Surgery | Ridge Preservation | Surgical Instructions
Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
Orthognathic surgery involves repositioning the upper or lower jaws, or both, in situations wherein the jaws do not meet correctly or the teeth do not relate properly within the jaw structure. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment always accompanies orthognathic surgery so that the teeth may be properly aligned in preparation for jaw surgery. The primary goal of orthognathic surgery is to improve and optimize the relationship between the teeth and jaws; however, some changes in facial appearance (that are usually very favorable) often accompany such treatment. It is important to realize that orthognathic surgery is not considered, or intended to represent, cosmetic surgery.
Drs. Pearson, Jefferson and Camp perform orthognathic (jaw) surgery in our Raleigh, Cary and Smithfield, North Carolina.
Orthognathic Surgery Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of orthognathic surgery, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to orthognathic surgery are discussed.
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Orthognathic Surgery Overview
For a brief narrated overview of the orthognathic surgery process, please click the image on the right. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about orthognathic surgery.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
Who would benefit from orthognathic surgery?
Patients who may benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite due to an incorrect relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Such a discrepancy can arise as a result of uneven jaw growth or trauma. Jaw growth is a gradual process, and in some instances the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The resultant discrepancy can lead to problems that can affect chewing function, speech, and long-term oral health. Orthodontic treatment alone may be unable to correct bite problems when an underlying jaw discrepancy is present – jaw surgery may be required to reposition one or both jaws more favorably.
The following types of problems warrant evaluation
- difficulty chewing, biting or swallowing
- speech problems
- chronic jaw or jaw joint pain
- over bite, under bite, or open bite (front teeth do not meet at all)
- protruding jaw (upper or lower)
- breathing problems
Consultation with an orthodontist is usually the most appropriate first step – an orthodontist can evaluate and diagnose problems that are present and discuss the benefits of orthodontic treatment. If it appears that jaw surgery would be advisable as part of the overall treatment plan, the orthodontist will usually refer the patient for consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The initial surgical consultation involves a thorough examination along with obtaining x-rays, photographs and models of the teeth (if not already available from the orthodontist). The consultation process also provides the patient with the opportunity to ask questions about the proposed treatment options.