Jaw Surgery

Corrective Jaw Surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a surgical procedure to change the shape of the jaws. It is done to correct different orthodontic problems.

The orthognathic treatment plan is quite extensive and usually lasts about 12 to 24 months, and the corrective surgery is done at some interim point. During this time, you may need to wear braces that have to be adjusted regularly. Some teeth may also have to be removed before surgery to create space for movement of the remaining teeth.

Jaw Surgery Fort Worth & Arlington

Learn More About Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic surgery may be needed if you have difficulty chewing and speaking due to the structure of the jaws and/or crowded or uneven teeth.

Indications that one should discuss this option with an oral surgeon include:

  • Open Bite – the upper and lower jaws do not close completely over each other, leaving an opening between them
  • Those who have an overbite or an underbite.
  • Protruding jawbones (jaws too far apart)
  • Breathing problems or sleep apnea due to narrow airways
  • Chronic jaw pain or headache.
  • Malocclusion – crooked teeth or uneven and protruding teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Injury causing dislocation of the jaw
  • Birth defects leading to uneven growth of jawbones

Dr. Sonneveld uses the CS 9300 system to get precise 3D images of the jaw and carefully plan the exact treatment protocol for each case. Using facial x-rays and computer-based video imaging, your surgeon can give you an accurate idea of how your bite can be improved, and the face will look after the corrective jaw surgery.

The surgery is a hospital procedure that may require one to three days of stay. Before the procedure, you will be given general anesthesia. The surgeon will make incisions inside the oral cavity to expose the jaw bones and muscles. The surgeon will then move, cut, and realign your lower and upper jaws to a normal position. This may involve the removal of some teeth and bone grafting if necessary. Once the jaw is fixed, it can be positioned permanently with the aid of bone plates and screws.

Your stitches will be removed after about one week or self-dissolve over the next few weeks, and you will go through a gradual healing process for another six weeks.

After your corrective jaw surgery, you will not be allowed to eat solid food for at least two weeks after the procedure. You can only drink liquids or consume pureed food during this time. This is done to allow the bones to heal properly. You will also have to use a straw for drinking water, avoiding any sugary drinks or alcohol. After two weeks, you may start eating soft solid foods.

You should avoid chewing gum or foods with a hard texture for one to two months after the corrective jaw surgery because it can interfere with your healing. You will be able to go back to your regular daily activities after two weeks, except for sports and gym activities. You will need to use painkillers during the recovery period.

Orthognathic surgery can greatly improve the look and function of your face. It will correct the alignment of your upper and lower jaws and remove any other dental abnormalities. This procedure also improves breathing, speaking, and appearance.  

Be sure to trust your facial cosmetic surgeries with a skilled and experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Sonneveld. When planning a cosmetic procedure, he will consider your entire facial bone structure, nerves, and tissues to provide the best aesthetic outcome.

Give us a call today at 817-927-1818 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment. You’ll be happy you chose Facial & Cosmetic Surgery Fort Worth.

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