Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)

Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and/or teeth don't seem to fit with jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. 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 can affect chewing function, speech, 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 in 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 will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.

Technology and Orthognathic Surgery

Dr. Jui uses modern computer 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 treatment prescribed. Our goal is to help you understand the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are a candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery, Dr. Jui will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment Your orthognathic team usually consists of an orthodontist as well as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. First, your orthodontist uses braces to move your teeth into correct position for the bite you’ll have after surgery. You may be wearing braces for 6-18 months before surgery (and up to a year afterward), depending on the position of your teeth and the type of surgery you’re having. As your teeth gradually shift into position and your x-rays and casts are reviewed, your orthodontist may shorten or lengthen the preparation phase. You’re ready for surgery when new casts of your upper and lower jaws finally fit together well.

Several weeks before surgery, your surgeon may perform one or more “simulated” or “mock” surgeries on casts of your teeth to plan each detail. Dr. Jui will discuss what type of surgery you will need. The actual surgical procedure will then reposition or realign your jaw(s) and perhaps other facial bones to give you a better bite and a more pleasing appearance. As with any surgery, there are some risks and complications. You may experience some pain and swelling in your face and neck, which will subside within a couple of weeks. Your face may feel stiff and/or numb for several months. During healing, there is a risk of infection and of the bones shifting position as they heal.

You will most likely see your orthodontist for about six months to a year to make sure your teeth are in correct position for your new, readjusted jaw. After final teeth positioning has finished, your braces will be removed.