Corrective Jaw Surgery in Salina, KS

September 16, 2022

Overview

Occasionally, conventional orthodontics (removable aligners or metal braces) alone cannot treat complex cases, which include a misaligned bite, deformities of the jaw or mouth, and malocclusion (extreme overbites). One or more of these issues may cause the chin to stick out or the jaw to become off-set, causing both aesthetic flaws and functional troubles. Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are experienced in performing surgery to correct the jaw (also referred to as simple jaw or orthognathic surgery) to resolve these problems and restore your dental well-being. In this process at Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery Salina, both the cartilage, bone, and tissues around the lower face could be reshaped, manipulated, and/or augmented so the teeth and jaw are correctly aligned. To find out more information on jaw surgery or other orthodontic treatments, schedule an appointment at our office in Salina, KS.

The Benefits

Orthognathic surgery can correct skeletal misalignment and address several issues related to the jaw. Ultimately, the goal is always to restore both form and function.

Specific benefits of corrective jaw surgery include:

Surgery can bring the teeth and jaw into alignment, improving the aesthetics of your smile.
Corrective jaw surgery may help alleviate discomfort while chewing or biting.
Jaw surgery is sometimes the most effective remedy for TMJ disorder and other types of persistent discomfort.
Corrective jaw surgery addresses issues that orthodontic appliances cannot effectively treat.
Jaw surgery can correct problems with swallowing or speech.
With jaw surgery, you can avoid premature wear and tear to your teeth.

Best Candidates

You might need jaw surgery if your chin is developed improperly or disproportionate, for bite misalignment, an offset jaw, face deformities, along with other difficulties. A few of the indications that you might encounter are problems biting or chewing, trouble talking, pain in the jaw joint (TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder), obvious protrusion of your chin, or difficulties breathing (sleep apnea). Speak to your doctor regarding your symptoms and medical background so he can ascertain whether you are in need of jaw surgery.

What To Expect

Before developing your treatment program, your surgeon will begin with a comprehensive examination. He will take x-rays to ascertain what surgical methods will work the best. Your procedure will be carried out with general anesthesia in a licensed surgical facility. This operation may take a few hours to finish because it involves manipulation of bone and cartilage. Typically, minor incisions will be produced on the inside of your mouth so that you should have no visible scars. Your doctor will cut your jawbone so that the pieces may be adjusted to the correct position. They will subsequently utilize surgical screws, plates, and wires to keep your jaw in its place. Bone grafts could also be required to enlarge your jaw.

Recovery

Following your operation, you need to have a responsible friend or family member pick you up and take you home. We urge you to take about 1 – 3 weeks to recover and rest before returning to school or work. Prior to your surgery, your doctor will discuss surgical instructions, such as pain medication, diet limitations, and the best way to rinse your mouth. It’s also advisable to plan follow-up visits after your operation, enabling your surgeon to evaluate your healing process. If you encounter any symptoms of infection, please contact our office right away. Your jaw will likely require about three months to fully heal. Afterward, further orthodontic treatment may be initiated.

Patient Education

Corrective Jaw Surgery