Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure used to treat dental and skeletal deformities in the jaw. Many people who have a misalignment between their upper and lower jaws require orthognathic surgery in order to improve facial aesthetics, speech, chewing ability and overall oral health. Orthognathic surgery works by repositioning the jaws, which can correct underbites, overbites and other misalignments. Orthognathic surgery may also help alleviate problems associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
What is orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a type of surgery that is performed to correct conditions of the jaw and face. These conditions can be caused by birth defects, injury, or other problems. Orthognathic surgery can be used to correct problems with the alignment of the jaws and teeth, to improve the function of the jaws, and to improve the appearance of the face. Orthognathic surgery is usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Orthognathic surgery can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Craniofacial dysostosis
- Cleft lip and palate
- Pierre Robin sequence
- Cleft chin
- Macrostomia
- Micrognathia
- Retrognathia (recessed chin)
What are the benefits of orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is needed when the jaws do not meet correctly and is usually due to oversized or undersized jaws. Our Bay Area OSM doctors work closely with orthodontists to align the teeth and then perform the corrective jaw surgery to reposition the jaw. This not only ensures that the teeth meet correctly and function properly, but improves facial appearance as well. From the first consultation to the last post-operative follow up visit, our Bay Area OSM office's make the orthognathic experience as easy and seamless as possible for both the patient and their family members.
Who is a candidate for orthognathic surgery?
If you have problems with the alignment of your jaws or teeth, you may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery can be performed on children, adolescents, and adults. Your orthodontist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will determine if you are a candidate for orthognathic surgery.
