Orthognathic surgery, often called jaw surgery, is a specialized procedure designed to correct various structural and functional problems in the jaw and facial bones. This surgery is typically performed to address misalignments in the jaw that affect the appearance and function of the face and mouth. Although it is not always the first line of treatment, orthognathic surgery can be life-changing for individuals who suffer from jaw-related issues that impact their daily lives.
Let’s explore what orthognathic surgery is, the conditions it addresses, and when it becomes necessary for patients.
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery involves repositioning the upper and/or lower jaw to improve alignment. This surgical intervention is often performed when orthodontics (braces or clear aligners) alone cannot correct a misalignment or structural problem. The surgery may involve cutting and repositioning the jawbones, realigning the teeth, and sometimes correcting facial asymmetry.
Orthognathic surgery restores both functional and aesthetic balance. It may improve bite function, enhance facial symmetry, and help with speech or breathing difficulties. It can also significantly improve a person’s appearance, boosting self-esteem and confidence.
A maxillofacial surgeon typically performs the surgery, often in collaboration with an orthodontist. Before the surgery, patients undergo a thorough evaluation, including X-rays, photographs, and models of their teeth, to plan the procedure in detail.
When is Orthognathic Surgery Necessary?
Orthognathic surgery is considered when other less invasive treatments, such as orthodontic braces, cannot achieve the desired results or when the jaw misalignment is too severe for orthodontics alone. Below are some common conditions that may require orthognathic surgery:
1. Severe Bite Problems (Malocclusion)
Malocclusion occurs when the teeth do not align properly when the mouth is closed. There are several types of malocclusion, including:
- Class II Malocclusion: Often referred to as an overbite, this condition occurs when the upper jaw is too forward about the lower jaw. This can cause difficulty biting and chewing and lead to speech difficulties.
- Class III Malocclusion: An underbite occurs when the lower jaw protrudes too far forward, causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth. This misalignment can lead to functional problems, such as difficulty chewing, and affect facial appearance.
In cases of severe malocclusion, orthognathic surgery may be necessary to reposition the jawbones and achieve proper alignment, allowing for better functionality and an improved appearance.
2. Jaw Asymmetry
Jaw asymmetry refers to the uneven development or positioning of the upper and lower jaws, which can result in noticeable facial imbalance. This condition can cause functional issues (like difficulty chewing or speaking) and cosmetic concerns. Orthognathic surgery can correct this asymmetry by realigning the jaws, improving both function and aesthetics.
In some cases, jaw asymmetry may result from trauma, congenital conditions, or developmental issues, which may require surgical intervention for proper correction. A more symmetrical jaw can provide a more balanced facial appearance and improve overall facial harmony.
3. Sleep Apnea and Breathing Difficulties
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing and disrupted sleep patterns. Various factors, including jaw misalignment or the positioning of the tongue and soft tissues in the mouth and throat, can cause OSA.
Orthognathic surgery may be a solution for individuals with sleep apnea caused by jaw positioning. By repositioning the upper and/or lower jaw, the surgeon can help open up the airway and improve breathing during sleep. This can significantly impact quality of life, reducing snoring, improving sleep quality, and eliminating other symptoms associated with sleep apnea.
4. Post Traumatic Facial Deformity
In cases of severe facial trauma, such as a broken jaw or a dislocated jaw following an accident, orthognathic surgery may be necessary to restore normal jaw function and appearance. Trauma to the jawbones can cause misalignment or facial asymmetry, which can be corrected with surgery to realign the bones and ensure proper bite function.
In these situations, the surgeon will work to repair any damage to the jaw and may also need to reposition teeth or tissues that were displaced in the accident. The goal is to restore normal jaw function, alleviate pain, and improve facial appearance.
5. Congenital Jaw Disorders
Some individuals are born with jaw-related abnormalities, such as a cleft palate or other congenital conditions that affect jaw growth and alignment. These issues can lead to functional and cosmetic problems, making chewing, speaking, or breathing difficult. Orthognathic surgery can correct these abnormalities, restoring normal jaw function and improving facial appearance.
Early intervention is crucial for individuals with congenital jaw disorders, and orthognathic surgery may be recommended once the jaw has finished growing, usually around the age of 18 or older.
6. Jaw Pain or Discomfort
In some cases, individuals experience chronic jaw pain or discomfort due to misalignment or structural issues with the jaw. This pain can be associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), where the joint that connects the jaw to the skull becomes inflamed or damaged.
For patients with severe jaw pain that does not improve with non-surgical treatments (such as physical therapy, medication, or bite adjustments), orthognathic surgery may effectively alleviate pain by correcting the jaw’s alignment and improving its function.
What is the Recovery Process?
Orthognathic surgery is a significant procedure, and recovery can take time. Most patients need to spend a few days in the hospital after the surgery to manage pain and swelling. The recovery process varies from person to person but typically includes the following stages:
- Immediate Post-Surgery: Swelling and discomfort are common after surgery, and a liquid or soft-food diet is recommended for the first few weeks.
- Healing Period: Full recovery can take 4-6 weeks to several months depending on individual. During this time, patients must follow specific care instructions, including avoiding certain activities that could affect the healing process, such as chewing hard foods or engaging in strenuous physical activity.
- Follow-Up Appointments: After surgery, regular follow-up visits with the surgeon and orthodontist are essential to monitor progress and ensure the proper healing of the jaw.
Orthognathic surgery is a life-changing procedure for individuals who suffer from severe jaw misalignment, malocclusion, sleep apnea, facial trauma, or congenital jaw disorders. While the surgery is not always the first line of treatment, it can provide significant benefits when other options, such as orthodontics, are insufficient. Orthognathic surgery can improve overall health, increase confidence, and a higher quality of life by improving both function and appearance. If you are experiencing jaw-related issues, contact us today at 80037569 to book an appointment with our experienced specialist oral surgeon at Dr Joy Dental Clinics to determine if orthognathic surgery is the right choice.
