Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a procedure regularly performed on patients whose jaws do not meet correctly, creating an improper bite and misalignment of the jaw. In some cases, the problem can be corrected without jaw surgery by an orthodontist. If the problem is severe, however, the orthodontist will need to work closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to correct the bite with orthognathic surgery.
Why do I need corrective jaw surgery?
A misaligned jaw can cause a variety of problems affecting the mouth and 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
- Heavy breathing
- Impaired speech function
- Poor facial aesthetics
Many of these problems can result in serious consequences for the overall health of the mouth and face. Early diagnosis and treatment of any disharmonies of the jaw are critical to reducing the risks of these consequences.
The primary goal of orthognathic surgery is to correct the function of the jaw; however, this procedure also results in improved aesthetics and facial proportions.
Patients who choose to have corrective jaw surgery can expect to experience several benefits, including
- Improved chewing, speech, and respiratory function
- Decreased likelihood of short- and long-term relapse
- Enhanced facial harmony, balance, and aesthetic appearance
Our surgeons and surgical staff at Utah Facial & Oral Surgery are specially trained and accomplished in performing corrective jaw surgery. They enjoy seeing the positive transformations and results that follow orthognathic treatment.
Am I a candidate for corrective jaw surgery?
If you experience any of the following problems, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery:
- Speech problems, breathing problems, or sleep apnea
- Significantly protruding upper or lower jaw
- Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
- Receding or weak chin
- Difficulty closing your lips comfortably
If you think you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, we encourage you to contact our office for an initial consultation. Our surgeons have undergone extensive surgical training and education, making them uniquely qualified to examine and treat irregularities of the facial skeleton. We will work closely with your orthodontist to plan and execute your procedure once we determine that you are a candidate.
When you choose to undergo orthognathic surgery, your orthodontist will begin by preparing your jaws and teeth with braces. Then your surgeon will separate your jaw, move the bones to their new permanent position, and secure them in place. Your orthodontist can then make any additional corrections needed to finish the bite before removing your braces.
If you think you may need corrective jaw surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Utah Facial & Oral Surgery. Our skilled office staff and extensively trained surgical team are pleased to help in any way possible to restore your oral function to achieve a positive result.
Where can I get jaw surgery in Salt Lake and Utah Counties?
Utah Facial & Oral Surgery in South Jordan, UT, offers various oral surgical procedures and treatments, including orthognathic/corrective jaw surgery. We serve the Salt Lake and Utah Counties area.
Contact our offices in either Lehi or South Jordan today to schedule your consultation for Corrective Jaw Surgery at (801) 446-4428.
