What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Copyright © PBHS 2006

Click here to watch Animation

Orthognathic surgery corrects disharmony in the facial skeletal structure through a combination of orthodontic therapy (braces) and maxillofacial (jaw) surgery. Disharmony may be the result of developmental disturbances, genetic influences, facial trauma, disease, or other factors that have an adverse effect on how the jaws and teeth fit together. In many situations, orthodontic therapy alone can correct a bad occlusion (bite) or dental crowding. However, in some cases the jaws themselves do not relate properly and a combination of orthodontics, and surgery is necessary to align the teeth and supporting jaw bones in order to restore normal function.

While orthognathic sounds like a BIG word, it simply means "straight jaws." The goal of orthognathic surgery is to straighten jaws so teeth meet well. The results are an improved bite, allowing you to speak, chew and breathe better. Positioning the chin or jaw correctly creates facial harmony and improves your appearance. Our doctors are happy to show you how orthognathic surgery can make a big difference in the way you look to others, and the way you feel about yourself.

Many children have problems with jaw development that go unnoticed, because jaw growth is gradual and problems are not always pronounced. A malformed jaw can interfere with alignment of teeth, chewing, speech and breathing. It can also cause a great deal of discomfort. Too often overly prominent or receding chins or "bucked teeth" are passed off as a family trait when they may be caused by problems with jaw development. Our doctors are happy to examine you or your children if you suspect a problem involving the jaws.

Treatment

The process of treating facial skeletal problems can take two years or longer, and it involves a team approach. Initially, you will visit your general dentist for a cleaning, treatment for gum disease, or other dental work. Following this, your orthodontist will place you in braces, positioning your teeth for the bite you'll have after surgery. Your pre-surgical orthodontic treatment may last up to 18 months or longer. During this time, you'll see your orthodontist for periodic adjustments.

Your Surgeon

Your surgeon will want to see you every six months during your orthodontic treatment for continued evaluation and to check your progress. He may perform one or more simulated surgeries on casts of your teeth to plan each detail. Following your orthodontic preparation, the surgery required to correct your problem will be reviewed with you.

Your surgeon will reposition your jaw bones to provide the best functional alignment with the most pleasing facial aesthetics. This operation is performed in the hospital under general anesthesia. Most orthognathic surgery is done from inside the mouth, so usually there is no visible external scar. Following surgery, orthodontic treatment may continue for up to a year to fine-tune the occlusion. Your dentist may perform periodic evaluations to ensure optimal health of the teeth and gums.