Many people suffer from jaw problems. In some cases, these problems can be treated with less invasive options, such as orthodontics, but they don’t work for everyone.
If that’s the case, you will benefit from consulting with a maxillofacial surgery specialist.
In this article, find out how these dental health professionals can help you resolve your jaw problems.
What is orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a procedure used to correct jaw problems when orthodontic treatments alone are inadequate.
During the procedure, the maxillofacial surgeon repositions the patient’s jaw, or jaws, into the correct position. Before performing the surgery, the specialists takes 3D x-rays. These are used to plan the surgery with a high degree of accuracy and to reduce the time needed for the procedure in the operating room. This is regularly done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.
The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and leaves no scar on the skin. After the operation, the surgeon always gives the patient post-operative instructions to insure optimal recovery.
What problems can be treated with orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is useful for treating many problems related to jaw growth and alignment. Here are the main types of conditions that can be treated with this procedure.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion is a misalignment of the jaw bones. This condition can have health consequences such as difficulty chewing and can even cause respiratory disorders. Sleep apnea is another possible consequence of jaw misalignement.
Several types of malocclusion can be treated with corrective jaw surgery:
- Class II malocclusion: The teeth of the lower arch are too far back due to a lack of growth of the mandible.
- Class III malocclusion: The opposite of a class II malocclusion. The mandible protrudes too far forward and/or the maxilla is too far back.
- Anterior open bite: The upper and lower posterior teeth touch when the person chews, but the incisors and front teeth do not.
Treating facial asymmetry
Orthognathic surgery is also used to treat people with facial asymmetry.
Facial asymmetry can be characterized by an increased development of the lower jaw on one side, or resorption (wear and tear) on one side of the face. This will result in a difference in growth between the right and left sides of the face.
This surgery restores the structural harmony of the face. Sometimes facial implants (PEEK implants) might be required to complete facial symmetry.
The effects of corrective jaw surgery
In addition to correcting malocclusions and facial asymmetry, orthognathic surgery also treats the problems that can develop due to these conditions:
- Restores full masticatory function
- Resolves breathing problems, speech impediments and sleep apnea
- Reduces excessive premature tooth wear and keeps teeth looking healthy
- Relieves pain related to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD)
- Improves patients’ self-esteem
The specialists at Clinique Evoro can correct your jaw problems!
Maxillofacial surgery specialists perform orthognathic surgery to correct jaw problems. Conditions such as malocclusion and facial asymmetry can be treated using this procedure, which benefits patients in many ways.
Looking for maxillofacial surgery specialists in the Gatineau region to correct a jaw problem? Contact Clinique Evoro for high-quality service and attentive care.