Jaw reconstruction, otherwise known as orthognathic surgery, is a method to correct or adjustment to any form of jaw irregularities. Many times, problems with the bite or the alignment of the teeth can be corrected using jaw corrective methods of dental and orthodontic treatment. This is a specialized way to correct any defects of the jaw relating to the structure. There are several ways through which these defects can occur; automobile accidents being the most common. Jaw reconstruction is a process used to correct jaw problems such as: open bites, difficulty chewing, difficulty swallowing, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder pains, excessive wear of the teeth in the jaw, and receding chins. It can also be used to take care of severe orthodontic problems involving the relationship between the teeth and the jaws, including the correction of under-bites and congenital defects related to jaw development. It can also help alleviate sleep apnea, a potentially life-threatening condition.
The Benefits of the Jaw Reconstruction
People that have problems related to the jaw, tooth alignment and facial asymmetry, may have difficulties chewing, talking, sleeping, and may benefit from having orthognathic surgery. These procedures can also be used to correct aesthetic issues, such as a protruding jaw or an unbalanced facial appearance. The use of orthodontic devices like retainers are often the best way to ensure you have a successful outcome. Conditions that can be treated with corrective orthognathic, jaw surgery include the following:- Open bite, protruding jaw or receding chin
- Congenital defects such as the cleft palate
- Malocclusion resulting from under-bites or severe overbites
- Obstructive sleep apnea, when conservative methods fail
- Difficulty swallowing, chewing or biting food
- Chronic jaw and jaw point pain and headache
- An unbalanced appearance from the front or side
- Inability to make the lips meet without straining
- Chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth
The Importance of Jaw Reconstruction
Jaw reconstruction is crucial to make adjustment and corrections to many dental issues such as:- Severe jaw alignment problems (front and back, vertical, and transverse alignment)
- Skeletofacial discrepancies associated with documented sleep apnea, airway defects, and soft tissue discrepancies
- Skeletofacial irregularities with documented TMJ pathology
Jaw Reconstruction Procedure
There are different cases, conditions and problems regarding jaw reconstruction and every patient’s needs are different. The first and the most essential component is a consultation with the restorative or general dentist, an orthodontist, and an oral surgeon. The surgery may occur in a hospital or an equipped dental office setting, with the type of anesthesia that’s most appropriate for the process, and for your comfort. Because the actual surgery is generally performed in the mouth, it often leaves no visible scars. After the procedure, most general pain and swelling can be controlled by prescription medication. Soft foods and liquids are advised following the procedure.