Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery repositions the upper or lower jaw to improve alignment and related functional problems.
Overview
It may be considered for significant bite differences, congenital jaw conditions or problems resulting from injury or disease.
Jaw surgery is usually one stage of a longer orthodontic and surgical treatment plan. It addresses jaw alignment problems that may affect chewing, speech and facial balance.
What to expect
Planning can involve dental impressions or scans, X-rays, CT imaging and photographs. Discuss expected changes, orthodontics, diet and recovery with the team.
Under general anesthesia, the surgeon repositions and reshapes the jawbones as needed and secures them using plates, screws or wires. Incisions are often inside the mouth.
A hospital stay and a period of liquid or soft food may be needed. Follow instructions for oral hygiene, any splint, medicines and activity. Healing and orthodontic adjustments continue over time.
Risks
Risks include infection, bleeding, numbness, tooth damage, joint problems, poor bone healing and recurrent bite problems. Seek advice for excessive bleeding, fever, worsening pain or breathing difficulty.
Frequently asked questions
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