Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is a commonly performed procedure specifically for patients whose jaws do not meet correctly, creating an improper bite and misalignment of the jaw. For some individuals, the problem can be corrected without jaw surgery with their orthodontist. In more severe cases, the orthodontist will need to work with an oral surgeon to correct the bite with orthognathic surgery.
Why do I need corrective jaw surgery?
Misaligned jaws can cause a multitude of problems inside the mouth as well as to the facial structure, including
The inability to properly chew and grind food
Digestive problems
Dental crowding
Poor oral hygiene
Increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease
Shorter tooth lifespan
Snoring and sleep apnea
The inability to fully close the lips
Impaired speech function
Poor facial aesthetics
Many of these problems can have serious consequences on the overall health of the mouth and face. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that irregularities of the jaw are diagnosed and treated early to reduce the risks of this condition.
While the goal of orthognathic surgery is to correct the functional problem with the jaw, this procedure also results in improved aesthetics and facial proportions. Patients who elect to undergo corrective jaw surgery can expect to see several benefits, including
Improved chewing, speech, and respiratory function
Decreased likelihood of short- and long-term relapse
Enhanced facial harmony, balance, and aesthetic appearance
The surgical team at Billings Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center is trained and experienced in performing corrective jaw surgery. They thoroughly enjoy seeing the positive transformations and results that follow orthognathic treatment.
Am I a candidate for corrective jaw surgery?
Many patients who are candidates for orthognathic surgery are already aware of the problem, but they do not know that there is treatment available. If you experience any of the following problems, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery:
Breathing problems or sleep apnea
Significantly protruding upper or lower jaw
Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
Receding chin
Difficulty closing your lips comfortably
If you think that you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, we encourage you to contact our office. Dr. Kyle Tracy and Dr. Andrew Boyce have all undergone extensive surgical education and training which makes them uniquely qualified to examine and treat abnormalities of the facial skeleton. If your doctor determines that you are a candidate, he will work hand in hand with your orthodontist to plan and execute your procedure.
When you elect to undergo orthognathic surgery, your orthodontist will prepare your teeth before surgery with braces. Your doctor will then surgically reposition your jaw. After surgery, your orthodontist will make any small, fine corrections needed to finish the bite before removing your braces.
If you think you may be in need of this procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation in one of our offices. We have four convenient locations, with two offices in Billings, MT, one office in Cody, WY, and one office in Sheridan, WY. Our well-trained office staff and highly skilled surgical team are happy to help in any way possible to restore your oral function.
