Procedures
Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
About Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
The word Orthognathic comes from the Greek words orthos, meaning “straight,” and gnathos, meaning “jaw.”
Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is a type of corrective jaw surgery that treats conditions of the jaw bones and face. The goal of this type of surgery is to improve the function of the jaws and teeth, resulting in more facial balance.
Surgery can be used to correct:
- Birth defects of the jaw
- Jaw pain
- Trauma-related injuries to the jaw when orthodontic treatment has not been effective
- Chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth
- Problems that occur as a result of the natural aging process
You will require a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon if you require any type of jaw surgery.
AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons offers orthognathic surgery in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low and Tempe, AZ.
Key Takeaway
Orthognathic surgery is a type of corrective jaw surgery that treats conditions of the jaw bones and face. The goal is to improve the function of the jaw and teeth, resulting in more facial balance.
Types of Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia.
The specific type of surgery will determine the incision location, but incisions are usually made inside the mouth in order to minimize visible scarring.
Orthognathic surgery falls into two main categories:
- Maxillary Surgery: Involves repositioning the upper jaw. This is also known as upper jaw surgery and helps correct conditions like an overbite or open bite.
- Mandibular Surgery: Involves repositioning the lower jaw to address underbites and other alignment issues.
For some patients, double jaw surgery (both maxillary and mandibular) may be required to achieve the correct jaw position and facial profile.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery offers a range of benefits, including:
- Reduction of facial imbalance
- Improved jaw function
- Correction of a bad bite (malocclusion)
- Proper alignment of the jaw and teeth
- Minimize excessive wear of teeth
- Improve or cure obstructive sleep apnea
- Improved speech and chewing ability
- Better oral hygiene and reduced risk of tooth decay or gum disease
- Relief from jaw pain and discomfort
- Improved facial profile and symmetry
Reasons for Orthognathic Surgery
Surgery can be used to correct a wide range of issues, including:
- Sleep apnea
- Birth defects of the jaw
- Facial bones that did not develop properly
- Trauma-related injuries to the jaw
- Jaw pain not resolved with orthodontic treatment
- Chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth
- Conditions related to alveolar bone irregularities
- Issues from the natural aging process
Congenital Jaw Problems
Orthognathic surgery can correct a number of congenital jaw problems, including individuals with an improper bite.
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Underbite | When the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw and teeth overlap. |
| Overbite | When the upper jaw extends too far forward, causing a gap between the front teeth. |
| Crossbite | When some of your top or bottom teeth don’t align properly with each other. |
| Cleft lip or cleft palate | When the lip or palate of your mouth does not completely form at birth. |
| Pierre Robin sequence | When a baby has a small jaw and a receding tongue, that causes breathing problems and feeding difficulties. |
A table showing the types of congenital conditions that can be corrected with orthognathic surgery.
Injuries and Conditions
Orthognathic surgery can also be used to address a wide range of injuries and conditions related to the jaw.
| Injury/Condition | Descriptions |
|---|---|
| Fractures of the jaw or jaw joint | Orthognathic surgery can help to realign the jaw, restore jaw function, and treat facial pain following a serious injury or facial trauma. |
| Tumors of the mouth | Orthognathic surgery can help to realign the jaw, restore jaw function, and treat facial pain following a serious injury or facial trauma. |
| Tumors of the mouth | Surgery is required to remove tumors that occur in the jaws, including benign tumors like osteomas and cysts. Orthognathic surgery may also be used in combination with other treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy, to address more serious tumors. |
| TMJ disorders | Surgery can be used to address issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is located where your jaw connects to your skull. TMJ disorders can lead to jaw pain and inflammation, as well as problems with biting and chewing. |
A table showing the types of injuries or conditions that can be corrected with orthognathic surgery.
Jaw Surgery for Sleep Apnea
Jaw surgery can also be used to treat sleep apnea, a condition that causes loud snoring and disrupted sleep.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airway, preventing air from flowing into the lungs. This can cause oxygen levels to drop, leading to health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Orthognathic surgery can help open the airway and improve sleep apnea symptoms.
Before we recommend surgery to cure sleep apnea, an oral surgeon will conduct a comprehensive examination of your face and throat region. A sleep study will be ordered to assess the degree of your problem.
The Surgery Process
Orthognathic procedures require careful planning and execution.
Before surgery, your surgeon will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and jaw. This will involve taking X-rays, photos, and dental impressions to create a detailed surgical plan.
You will also be asked to bite down on special dental appliances called surgical splints. These splints will be used to help the surgeon determine the best way to reposition your jaw during surgery.
During the actual surgery, the surgeon will:
- Make incisions inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring.
- Reposition the jawbone to the correct position
- Secure the bone with titanium screws and plates
In some cases, bone grafts may be used to strengthen areas of bone loss or improve proper alignment.
What Materials Are Used?
Titanium screws and plates are typically used to secure the jawbone in place.
These materials are strong and durable, allowing your jaw to heal properly after surgery. In some cases, other materials may be used instead of titanium, depending on your specific needs. Because of the strength, most of the time, teeth will not need to be wired together after surgery.
If your jaw is severely misaligned or your teeth are badly damaged, your surgeon may temporarily wire your teeth together after surgery. This will help to keep the jaw in place while it heals.
Can I Be Allergic?
Allergic reactions to titanium plates and screws are rare.
However, you should inform your surgeon of any allergies before surgery so they can take the proper precautions. Always ask your surgeon about other potential side effects or complications that may arise following surgery.
Anesthesia
Orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure that usually requires general anesthesia. You will be given an anesthetic to keep you asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. Refer to our Anesthesia Guidelines for further info.
Recovery Time
Jaw surgery is a major surgical procedure, so you can expect a fairly lengthy recovery period.
Most patients start to feel good after 2–3 weeks after surgery for minor procedures and 6–12 weeks for more serious cases. It will take some time for the bones and soft tissue in your mouth to heal properly.
During this time, you will likely experience some swelling and bruising around your jaws and face. You may also have some difficulty speaking and eating. It is important to follow the post-operative instructions carefully during this time to ensure proper healing.
The Risks
Orthognathic surgery is a safe and effective procedure, but like all surgical procedures, it does come with some risks.
The most common complications include infection and bleeding. Blood loss during surgery is usually minor and can be controlled. In more serious cases, damage to surrounding structures, such as nerves or salivary glands, can also occur.
Don’t Suffer In Silence
If you have suffered a jaw or facial injury or are experiencing chronic problems with your jaw, mouth, or teeth, contact AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons for a consultation.
Our skilled oral surgeons will work with you to develop a treatment plan that can help you achieve and regain optimal oral health.
We practice a full scope of oral surgery with expertise ranging from jaw surgery to wisdom teeth removal.
To book a consultation at our oral surgery office in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low or Tempe, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form.
