Oral Surgery To Correct Jaw Misalignment

Oral Surgery To Correct Jaw Misalignment

Jaw misalignment, also known as malocclusion, can cause a variety of dental and health issues, such as difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing. In some cases, misalignment is more than just a cosmetic concern – it can lead to pain, discomfort, and long-term complications. Oral surgery to correct jaw misalignment is an effective solution for individuals dealing with significant bite issues. This guide will explain how oral surgery works to correct jaw misalignment and what to expect during and after the procedure.

Oral Surgery To Correct Jaw Misalignment
Oral Surgery To Correct Jaw Misalignment

What Is Jaw Misalignment?

Jaw misalignment occurs when the upper and lower jaws do not align properly. This misalignment can be caused by several factors, including genetics, injury, or developmental issues during childhood. There are different types of jaw misalignment, including:

  • Underbite: The lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw.
  • Overbite: The upper jaw extends too far over the lower jaw.
  • Crossbite: Some upper teeth fall inside the lower teeth, affecting the alignment of the jaws.
  • Open Bite: The front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, leaving a gap.

These types of misalignment can affect both the appearance of your smile and the functionality of your bite. In more severe cases, correcting jaw misalignment may require oral surgery.

Why Is Oral Surgery Needed For Jaw Misalignment?

In many cases, non-surgical methods such as braces or orthodontic treatment can help correct mild to moderate jaw misalignment. However, when the misalignment is severe or does not improve with braces alone, oral surgery may be necessary.

Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is the procedure used to correct significant jaw misalignment. It involves realigning the upper and/or lower jaw to improve both the function and appearance of your bite. This surgery is typically recommended when the misalignment causes:

  • Difficulty Chewing or Biting: Misaligned jaws can make it hard to bite or chew food properly.
  • Jaw Pain or Discomfort: Misalignment can cause pain in the jaw joints (TMJ), neck, or head.
  • Speech Problems: A misaligned jaw can affect the way you speak.
  • Breathing Issues: Severe misalignment may interfere with airflow, making breathing difficult, especially at night.
  • Aesthetic Concerns: Misaligned jaws can lead to an uneven or unbalanced facial appearance.

Correcting jaw misalignment through oral surgery can significantly improve both the function and aesthetics of your jaw and teeth.

How Does Oral Surgery To Correct Jaw Misalignment Work?

Oral surgery to correct jaw misalignment is a detailed and carefully planned procedure that is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The surgery typically involves the following steps:

1. Pre-Surgical Preparation

Before undergoing jaw surgery, the surgeon will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, 3D imaging, and dental impressions. This helps the surgeon create a personalized surgical plan. You will also work with an orthodontist, who will likely place braces on your teeth prior to surgery to align your teeth and prepare them for the procedure. These braces will remain in place for several months or even years before surgery, depending on the severity of the misalignment.

  • Tip: The pre-surgical phase may take some time, so it’s important to follow all instructions from your dentist and surgeon to ensure the best outcome.

2. Anesthesia

On the day of the surgery, you will be given anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free. Depending on the complexity of the surgery, general anesthesia (where you are completely asleep) or local anesthesia (where only the jaw area is numbed) may be used. In some cases, IV sedation may also be used to help you relax during the procedure.

3. Jaw Realignment

The surgeon will make incisions inside your mouth or in discreet locations on your face to access the jawbone. Once the jaw is exposed, the surgeon will reposition the upper or lower jaw (or both) to correct the alignment. In some cases, the jaw may need to be cut and reshaped to fit properly.

  • Upper Jaw Surgery (LeFort I): This procedure involves moving the upper jaw forward or backward to align it with the lower jaw.
  • Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy): This procedure involves repositioning the lower jaw to improve bite function and appearance.

The surgeon may also use plates, screws, or wires to secure the jaw in its new position.

4. Closing the Incisions

After realigning the jaw, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. These may dissolve over time, or they may need to be removed after a few weeks, depending on the type of sutures used.

5. Post-Surgery Care

After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room for a few hours to ensure you are stable and comfortable. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days, but your surgeon will provide pain management options to help ease any pain.

  • Tip: Follow the post-surgery care instructions carefully, including avoiding hard foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

Recovery After Jaw Surgery

The recovery process after jaw surgery varies depending on the extent of the surgery, your health, and how well you follow post-operative instructions. Here’s what to expect during recovery:

1. Initial Recovery Period

In the first few days following surgery, you will likely experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Ice packs can help reduce swelling, and pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort. You may be advised to stick to a liquid or soft food diet during the early stages of recovery to avoid strain on your jaw.

2. Orthodontic Adjustments

After the surgery, you may need to continue wearing braces for a period of time, depending on your specific case. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and make adjustments to ensure your teeth stay aligned during the healing process.

3. Follow-Up Appointments

You will need to attend follow-up appointments with both your oral surgeon and orthodontist to monitor your recovery and ensure that your jaw heals properly. The surgeon will check the alignment of your jaw, while the orthodontist will continue to adjust your braces to perfect your bite.

4. Full Recovery

Complete recovery from jaw surgery can take several months. Swelling and discomfort should gradually subside, and you will gradually return to normal activities. It may take up to a year or more for the final results to be fully realized, as the jaw continues to settle into its new position.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with jaw surgery, including:

  • Infection: Though rare, infections can occur after surgery, requiring additional treatment.
  • Nerve Damage: Temporary or permanent nerve damage can occur, leading to numbness or tingling in the face, lips, or tongue.
  • Relapse: In some cases, the jaw may not remain in the desired position, requiring further treatment or surgery.
  • Scarring: While incisions are typically made inside the mouth, there may be some scarring in the mouth or along the jawline.

Your surgeon will explain these risks to you in detail and work with you to minimize any potential complications.

Conclusion

Oral surgery to correct jaw misalignment is a highly effective procedure for improving both the function and appearance of your bite. While the process involves careful planning, recovery, and post-surgery care, the long-term benefits can significantly enhance your quality of life. If you’re struggling with jaw misalignment, consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss your options and determine whether jaw surgery is the right solution for you.