Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery (aka, orthognathic surgery) treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones, jaws and the teeth. Abnormalities of this sort often cause difficulty with chewing, talking, sleeping and other routine activities.
Orthognathic surgery corrects these functional problems and, in conjunction with orthodontic treatment, may dramatically enhance a patient's facial appearance. We understand that jaw surgery can be a scary consideration for people and we will be sensitive to thoroughly discuss the entire process with prospective candidates.
Using the latest in digital imaging and simulation technology, Dr. Karkhanechi will demonstrate the overall functional and aesthetic benefits of orthognathic surgery when needed. Computerized treatment planning minimizes treatment times, recovery periods, and the overall efficacy of jaw surgery. State-of-the-art materials, including titanium plates and miniature fixation screws, provide stability, strength, and predictability of surgical treatment. These advances in technology, procedures, and equipment reduce post-surgical recovery time, thus allowing patients to return to their normal routines soon after the 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 (“overbite”)
- Protruding lower jaw (“underbite”)
- Inability to make the lips meet without straining
- Chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth
- Sleep apnea (breathing problems when sleeping, including snoring)
Orthognathic surgery may be unnecessary if orthodontic treatment alone can correct the problem. With the latest advances in orthodontics, this is sometimes the case. Dr. Karkhanechi will work closely with your dentist as well as an oral surgeon to determine if orthognathic surgery is the correct treatment option for you.
