A malocclusion (misaligned bite) can affect many aspects of your life, including your ability to chew and speak, your facial aesthetics, and even your airway health. If you have a significant overbite, underbite, or another type of jaw misalignment, you might be thinking about visiting an oral surgeon for a consultation. How can they help, and what can you expect from the process? This blog post provides some important basic information.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
It is important to note that surgery is not necessary for all cases of malocclusion. In fact, most mild to moderate instances of misalignment can be corrected via orthodontic devices, such as braces and their accompanying accessories.
Corrective jaw surgery is typically reserved for severe cases of jaw misalignment, when orthodontia would not be enough.
Talk to your general dentist about your concerns. Based on their evaluation of your jaws and teeth, they may refer you to an oral surgeon or an orthodontist to take your next steps.
The Jaw Surgery Process
There are different types of corrective jaw surgery. For example, if you need work on your upper jaw, your surgical team may carefully separate it from your skull, reposition it, and secure it back into place. If you need to have the position of your lower jaw corrected, it will be split near your molars and secured into its proper position with screws. Some patients require double jaw surgery, in which both jaws are adjusted.
You should be comfortable during your procedure. Anesthesia and sedation can work together to make sure you feel little to nothing throughout your appointment. Afterward, some soreness is normal, but it can be managed with pain relievers and other measures. The initial healing period is typically six weeks or so.
Keep in mind that jaw surgery is not usually a standalone treatment. Most patients need to wear braces both before and after their procedure in order to reposition the teeth and make sure they work harmoniously with the corrected jaw positioning.
From start to finish, the entire process (including braces) may take 2 – 3 years.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery can feel like a big commitment, but do not be too intimidated by it! As long as you partner with a qualified care team and follow your pre- and post-op instructions, you can expect a positive outcome. Some benefits that you can look forward to include:
- Reduced facial pain
- Improved ability to chew and speak
- Enhanced, more balanced facial appearance
- A lower risk of broken teeth, decay, and other dental issues
- Greater confidence in social and professional settings
- Improved breathing, especially during sleep
Jaw surgery can be a truly lifechanging experience! If you are ready to take the first step toward freedom from severe dental misalignment, consult a qualified professional.
Meet NOVA
Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery is home to four board-certified oral surgeons, two of whom also have medical degrees. Our team works together to provide detail-oriented, top-quality care to patients in Alexandria, Reston, Annandale, and Burke. If you would like to speak to us about corrective jaw surgery or the other services we offer, contact us at 571-777-6501.