Corrective Jaw Surgery in Northwest Missouri

Corrective Jaw Surgery in Northwest Missouri
Posted on 07/13/2021

For many people, orthodontic treatment will be limited to expanders, braces, and may be the occasional tooth extraction. But the possibilities for treatment go far beyond that, giving orthodontists the ability to correct more complicated malocclusions, such as severe overbites and underbites, with “orthognathic” corrective jaw surgery. Choice Orthodontics is home to a highly qualified maxillofacial surgeon and team and uses state-of-the-art technology and personalized care to provide orthodontic treatment in Northern Missouri.

Who Requires Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is used in cases where the light pressure of an expander or braces is not enough to move the teeth into a better position. When the jaw has developed unfavorably since childhood, the resulting misalignment needs to be surgically corrected between phases of braces or expanders. Orthognathic surgery is commonly used to correct severe overbites, underbites, and other skeletal tissues of the face that can cause breathing problems, affect chewing and swallowing, cause sleep apnea, dental problems, and affect the harmony and aesthetics of the face.

The Procedure

Your procedure will be planned by your orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon, using computer imaging and 3D CT scans to map out the optimal surgical changes to address your specific needs. You will likely have already undergone some orthodontic treatment to prepare for the surgery. The surgery itself will be performed with general anesthesia, usually at the hospital, and will require a few day's stays. The jawbones will be cut and either reshaped or extended using small screws and plates or a small bone graft depending on your needs. Scarring is at an absolute minimum because most incisions are made inside the mouth.

Aftercare

The doctor will provide you with instructions for aftercare and healing, including:

  • Medication to manage pain
  • A list of foods that are safe to eat while you heal
  • An oral hygiene routine
  • Things to avoid such as tobacco and strenuous activity

Initial healing takes 6 weeks, then your orthodontist can proceed with your treatment plan. Healing will be complete in 12 weeks.

Contact Your Orthodontist Today

Orthognathic surgery helps many of our patients achieve truly life-changing results from their orthodontic treatment. To find out if you’re a candidate for this procedure, contact us at Choice Orthodontics and request an appointment today. We can’t wait to help you achieve the beautiful and functional smile you deserve!