1215 W. Rio Salado Pkwy, Suite 113, Tempe, AZ 85281
Orthognathic Surgery, Also Known as Jaw Surgery
Advanced Options for Dealing with Various Functional, Aesthetic, and Health Issues
Our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer advanced corrective jaw surgery procedures to significantly improve common concerns affecting the jaws. Misaligned jaws and other conditions can have a significant impact on daily life, but corrective jaw surgery provides an effective, long-term solution for patients who may not find success with orthodontic appliances alone. This type of surgery is particularly beneficial for teenagers and adults with severe underbite or overbite conditions. At Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona, we offer a variety of corrective and reconstructive jaw surgery options to help individuals improve their quality of life and achieve exemplary results.
Learn more about:
What is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a series of procedures aimed at correcting dental and skeletal irregularities ranging from mild to severe. These issues often involve misalignment of the teeth and jaws. By addressing these concerns, corrective jaw surgery can alleviate functional problems and discomfort associated with jaw and bite issues, improve speech, and enhance one's overall appearance.
What Are the Advantages of Undergoing Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery can provide numerous benefits for patients dealing with functional conditions like bruxism, TMJ Disorder, sleep apnea, chewing or speech problems, jaw prominence, and aesthetic concerns related to facial balance. For eligible patients, this surgery can address long-standing bite issues, improve overall health, and enhance facial appearance.
Candidates for Corrective Jaw Surgery
People who are good candidates for corrective jaw surgery often have the following conditions:
- Problems with biting or chewing food
- Difficulty swallowing
- An open bite (gap between upper and lower teeth when mouth is closed)
- A protruding jaw
- Underbite or overbite
- Receding chin
- Persistent jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ disorder
- Imbalanced facial appearance
- Previous facial injury
- Congenital facial defects
- Chronic dry mouth or mouth breathing
- Sleep apnea
- Excessively worn-down teeth
- Difficulty bringing upper and lower lips together without strain
To find out if you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, schedule an in-person consultation at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona. Our surgeon will examine your oral structures, use advanced technology to assess your condition, and discuss potential treatment options. If surgery is recommended, we will create a personalized treatment plan to address your needs.
Orthognathic Surgery is Available for Teenagers and Adults Who Have an Underbite or Overbite
Orthognathic surgery is a recommended treatment for teenagers and adults with a severe underbite, also known as a "class 3 malocclusion." While some underbites can be corrected with braces, others are caused by a mispositioned or larger lower jaw, leading to facial imbalances, speech and chewing difficulties, tooth wear, and potential TMJ Disorder. Our experienced surgeons have successfully performed orthognathic surgery to correct underbites and improve jaw positioning, reducing aesthetic, functional, and oral health issues. In some cases, this surgery may also be recommended for overbites. During your consultation, our oral surgeon will assess your needs and discuss the best treatment options for you.
Why should you choose Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona for Jaw Surgery?
Dr. Golding and Dr. Sabol are both certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, showcasing their expertise, dedication, and education in procedures related to jaw and oral/maxillofacial issues. They specialize in treating patients with jaw and teeth misalignment, offering a wide range of advanced treatment options. Our practice is equipped with fully equipped operating rooms, providing patients with the convenience and comfort of having jaw surgery procedures done on-site. Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons exceed the requirements for general dentists, offering state-of-the-art orthognathic surgery procedures to improve bite alignment, oral function, facial aesthetics, and overall facial balance.
What is Involved in the Jaw Surgery Procedure?
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons will tailor jaw surgery to meet your specific needs and goals. The procedure will depend on factors such as whether it involves the upper jaws, lower jaws, or both; if bones need to be cut and repositioned; if additional bone material is required; and other unique considerations in your personalized treatment plan. Procedures for bite alignment issues, like overbite or underbite, may involve advancing or setting back the upper or lower jaw. In some cases, "double jaw" surgery may be necessary for optimal results. Our surgeons prioritize the least invasive approach to address your concerns effectively. After evaluating your needs and discussing all options with you, they will help determine the technique that will achieve the best outcomes.
During the Recovery Process After Jaw Surgery, What Should I Expect?
The recovery process following jaw surgery will vary depending on the specific procedure and individual concerns addressed. However, there are some common aspects of recovery to expect. Soreness and swelling are typical within the first 24 hours, with ice packs recommended to reduce swelling. Swelling should decrease after about five days. A clear liquid diet is usually necessary for the first day, gradually transitioning to a less restrictive diet as healing progresses. Non-strenuous activities can typically be resumed within the first week. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor progress. For more information on recovery expectations, please visit our section on jaw surgery aftercare.
New Patients Welcome!
For more information about our dental services or to schedule a consultation at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona, please contact us today.