Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)

Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)

Jaw surgery, sometimes called orthognathic surgery, is a procedure that aligns your upper and lower jaw so your bite is more even. People might opt for jaw surgery because they have a congenital issue or other medical condition, but it’s also a common solution for people who have sustained physical trauma. Whether it’s a car accident or a malocclusion, the right dental team can help you work through each step until your jaw is fixed.

Common Reasons for Orthognathic Surgery

A normal bite refers to the upper teeth fitting slightly over the lower teeth, with the tips of the molars on the top fitting squarely into the tips of the molars on the bottom. If the upper teeth protrude past the lower ones or vice versa, this can cause your teeth to wear down in certain places as you go about the normal course of your day.

To avoid excessive pressure, jaw surgery corrects the issue, so your smile is even, and your chewing patterns don’t jeopardize your teeth. In addition to bite issues, jaw surgery can also correct cleft palates and Pierre Robin sequence (underdeveloped jaw).

What to Expect During Jaw Surgery

The length of jaw surgery depends on the patient and the condition. In some cases, there’s no choice in the matter. For instance, infants born with congenital defects may require jaw surgery in Roswell to eat and breathe normally. For others, it may be more of an aesthetic correction to get the smile they want.

It’s important to think through what you’re looking for from the procedure because the entire process can take several years from start to finish. While this is undoubtedly a commitment on the part of the patient, it’s also an important measure to safeguard long-term oral health. Issues that don’t seem serious now, such as slightly uneven bite patterns, can manifest into anything from root canals to tooth loss if they’re allowed to continue.

Jaw Surgery in Roswell, GA

Your success with jaw surgery depends on the practice you choose. If you’re looking for a qualified oral surgeon team in Roswell, GA, contact Attia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery to learn more about our team, specialties, and how we can help.