Orthognathic Surgery

People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) problems, suhc as degenerative arthritis, may cause the jaw to shift out of position, which can adversely affect the bite. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery is required when repositioning of the jaws is necessary.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated for possible orthognathic surgery:

• Difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing.
• Speech problems .
• Chronic jaw or TMJ pain.
• Open bite.
• Protruding jaw.
• Asymmetrical or crooked jaw.
• Breathing problems, such as sleep apnea.