Orthognathic Surgery

The literal meaning of orthognathic surgery is “surgery to create straight jaws”. Orthognathic surgery is also known as corrective jaw surgery. It is a technique by which the upper or lower jaw can be moved into a new position.

Jaw growth is a slow and gradual process. Occasionally, there are discrepancies in the amount of growth and the jaws may develop at different rates. One or both jaws may grow too much or too little resulting in a facial deformity. Alternatively, one side of the face may fail to develop properly or may grow too much creating facial asymmetry. The resulting abnormality can produce a malocclusion or a “bad bite”. This can in turn lead to eating and biting problems and speech abnormalities. In addition, the improper alignment of the teeth may threaten the long-term health of the teeth and gums, and can also adversely affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Orthognathic surgery may be needed to correct the problem.

Orthognathic surgery also has an important role in the management of congenital face and skull deformities, for example cleft lip and palate. Abnormalities of the upper face, cheek bones and nose can be corrected with surgery as well.

The oral and maxillofacial surgeon works closely with the orthodontist in the management of patients needing corrective jaw surgery. Orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances (braces) is needed in preparation for surgery. The upper or lower jaw or both are then moved into a more favorable position. This will allow optimum correction of the bite to improve chewing and oral health, as well as improving facial appearance.

Take a closer look at your bite and appearance. Do your teeth fit together properly? Are your teeth straight? Do you have “buck” teeth? Do you show too much of your upper front teeth? Do you show too little? Does your chin stick out? Does it recede?

If you suspect there is cause for concern, have our doctors examine your face and take a look at your bite.