Orthagnathic Surgery
Corrective jaw, or orthognathic, surgery is performed to correct a wide range of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities by Maxillofacial and Oral Surgeons. NYC doctors Swain, Zagari and Lustman perform these types of surgeries including the misalignment of jaws and teeth, which, in turn, can improve chewing, speaking and breathing in their Manhattan facilities. While the patient’s appearance may be dramatically enhanced as a result of their surgery, orthognathic surgery is performed to correct functional problems.
Did You Know…
What used to require a week-long stay in the hospital is now often performed as an out-patient procedure or an overnight stay.
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Symptoms and Reasons for Surgery
Following are some of the conditions that may indicate the need for corrective jaw surgery:
- difficulty chewing, or biting food
- difficulty swallowing
- chronic jaw or jaw joint (TMJ) pain and headache
- excessive wear of the teeth
- open bite (space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed)
- unbalanced facial appearance from the front, or side
- facial injury or birth defects
- receding chin
- protruding jaw
- inability to make the lips meet without straining
- chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth
- sleep apnea (breathing problems when sleeping, including snoring)
Evaluating Your Need for Corrective Jaw Surgery
Your Dentist, Orthodontist and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will work together to determine whether you are a candidate for corrective jaw, or orthognathic, surgery. The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon determines which corrective jaw surgical procedure is appropriate and performs the actual surgery. It is important to understand that your treatment, which will probably include orthodontics before and after surgery, may take several years to complete. Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and Orthodontist understand that this is a long-term commitment for you and your family. They will try to realistically estimate the time required for your treatment.
Corrective jaw surgery may reposition all or part of the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin. When you are fully informed about your case and your treatment options, you and your dental team will determine the course of treatment that is best for you.
Enjoy the Benefits
Corrective jaw surgery moves your teeth and jaws into positions that are more balanced, functional and healthy. Although the goal of this surgery is to improve your bite and function, some patients also experience enhancements to their appearance and speech. The results of corrective jaw surgery can have a dramatic and positive effect on many aspects of your life.