When prospective patients think about orthodontics, it’s fairly common for the spotlight to be on teeth. But corrections of the jaw can bear some of the most significant transformations for kids and adults alike. Our team at Eastern Virginia Orthodontics wants to talk about what to expect during orthognathic surgery and post-treatment care and hopefully spread better awareness!
Orthognathic Surgery: A Brief Introduction
Orthognathic surgery involves realigning the jaws to correct skeletal discrepancies, which you’re usually born with and cannot be fixed by an appliance like braces alone.
This procedure is typically performed outside of our offices by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with Dr. Peluso or Dr. Savage.
- Definition: A surgical procedure to correct irregularities of the jawbones.
- Purpose: To improve alignment, function, and aesthetics.
- Common Issues Addressed:
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Speech impediments
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Sleep apnea caused by airway obstruction
- Open bite, underbite, or overbite
- Facial asymmetry
Who Needs It?
Jaw misalignment can be plainly apparent in some patients, while in others, it’s a bit more subtle. Either way, it can cause issues and interruptions to oral functions that shouldn’t have to be impaired.
Our team might suggest orthognathic surgery for you (or a family member) if:
- You Have Severe Jaw Misalignment: Conditions like overbite, underbite, or open bite that cannot be corrected with braces or Invisalign alone.
- You Experience Chronic Pain: Ongoing TMJ pain or headaches related to jaw issues.
- You Struggle with Basic Functions: Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing.
- You Suffer from Sleep Apnea: Jaw realignment can help open the airway and improve sleep quality.
- Your Facial Appearance is Affected: Issues like facial asymmetry or a recessed chin can often be addressed through jaw surgery.
What Are The Benefits?
- Alleviated Pain: Relieves chronic pain caused by jaw misalignment or TMJ disorders.
- Enhanced Functionality: Properly aligned jaws improve chewing, speaking, and breathing.
- Improved Appearance: Jaw surgery can create a more balanced facial profile and symmetrical smile. Again, this can be a very visible discrepancy in some patients, so alignment results in a considerable change in appearance.
- Better Oral Health: Correcting bite issues reduces wear and tear on teeth and prevents future dental problems.
- Boosted Confidence: A balanced and functional smile can increase self-esteem and confidence.
The Procedure
- Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation by your orthodontist and oral surgeon. During this appointment, we’ll take X-rays, 3D imaging, and digital impressions. Our team at Eastern Virginia Orthodontics will discuss your specific needs and outline the necessary surgical approach.
- Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Often before the surgery, you’ll undergo orthodontic treatment (typically with braces) to align your teeth in preparation for the procedure. This phase can last several months to over a year, depending on your case.
- The Surgery: Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia and can last several hours, depending on the complexity of your case. The surgeon will:
- Reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
- Use surgical plates, screws, or wires to stabilize the desired alignment.
The Recovery
We wish there was a very structured, universal recovery timeline for everyone—but that’s not the case! Recovery will vary from person to person, but here’s a general timeline of what you can expect at different stages.
Initial Recovery Period (1-2 Weeks):
- Swelling and Discomfort: It’s perfectly normal to experience swelling, bruising, and mild pain. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to manage discomfort.
- Dietary Restrictions: Stick to a strictly liquid or soft-food diet to avoid stressing your jaw.
- Oral Hygiene: Follow your dentist’s instructions for cleaning your teeth and avoiding infection. This can take a bit of practice, but it is doable!
Intermediate Recovery Period (3-6 Weeks):
- Jaw Mobility: You’ll begin to gradually regain the ability to chew and speak normally as time passes and you allow yourself the necessary time to rest.
- Check-Ups: Regular follow-ups with your orthodontist and surgeon will be used to monitor your progress.
- Orthodontic Adjustments: You’ll likely continue wearing braces or aligners to refine your bite further.
Long-Term Recovery (6+ Weeks):
- Full Healing: It can take several months for your jaw to heal and stabilize in its new state fully.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: You’ll eventually be able to adopt your regular diet and physical activities and get back to your routine prior to surgery.
- Smile Refinement: Our team will fine-tune the remainder of your treatment to ensure your results are absolutely seamless.
Pieces of The Puzzle
The majority of patients won’t need orthognathic surgery, but for some, it is absolutely instrumental to the smile they’ve always wanted. If we determine this is needed, don’t be nervous—you’re in excellent hands with us at Eastern Virginia Orthodontics. Our door is always open to new patients in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, or Chesapeake.