Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)
Midessa Oral & Facial Surgery – Midland & Odessa TX
Who Needs Jaw Surgery? | FAQs About Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is needed when the top and bottom jaws don’t meet correctly and/or teeth don’t adequately fit within the jaw. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.
Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite, or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that may affect chewing function, speech, or long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary.
Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:
- Difficulty in chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Speech problems
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Open bite
- Protruding jaw
- Breathing problems
Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or as a result of trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
Technology & Orthognathic Surgery
Dr. Gutta uses modern computer-aided techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you’ll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the proposed treatment.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Dr. Gutta will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.
What to Expect
- Corrective jaw surgery is a significant intervention requiring many months of preparation.
- The surgery is performed in the hospital and can last between one to four hours.
- Hospital stays of one to three days are normal.
- Braces are maintained during surgery and may need to be removed six to twelve months after surgery.
- The greatest impact of orthognathic surgery is the recovery phase.
- Patients typically may be off work/school from two weeks to one month after surgery.
- Return to normal chewing function may take 2 months and full
function may take one year.- Our goal is to ensure you are well taken care of during and after surgery.
- Weekly appointments are required for up to two months after surgery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT JAW SURGERY:
1. How long is the recovery process after jaw surgery?
- Recovery from jaw surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure. Typically, patients experience swelling and discomfort for 2–3 weeks, with full recovery taking 6–12 months. During this time, you’ll follow a liquid or soft-food diet and avoid strenuous activity. A detailed post-op care plan will help manage pain, swelling, and healing.
2. What are the risks and complications of jaw surgery?
- As with any major surgery, jaw surgery carries risks, such as infection, nerve damage (leading to numbness), blood loss, or issues with jaw alignment. However, these complications are relatively rare, and most patients experience a smooth recovery with proper care and follow-up.
3. Will I need braces before and after jaw surgery?
- Yes, in most cases, patients will need to wear braces before and after jaw surgery. The braces are used to align the teeth in preparation for surgery and to ensure proper bite alignment during recovery. The total duration of braces treatment can range from 12 to 24 months, depending on your specific case.
4. What can I expect in terms of the outcome of jaw surgery?
- After recovery, most patients experience significant improvements in both the function and appearance of their jaw. This can include better chewing, speaking, and breathing, as well as improved facial symmetry. However, results vary by individual, and it may take time for swelling to fully subside and for the final aesthetic result to be visible.