Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, can seem like a major undertaking, and in many ways, it is! However, it can provide some truly remarkable benefits that have the potential to enhance your health and support your overall quality of life. What can you expect from this procedure, and what are some specific benefits that may result from it? This blog post explains.
An Introduction to Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is usually recommended when traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments are not adequate for addressing severe bite problems, such as overbites and underbites. It can also be used to reduce sleep apnea symptoms and improve facial symmetry. Often, this surgery is used along with orthodontic treatments to produce optimum results.
The details of orthognathic surgery can vary, but it often involves strategically breaking, repositioning, and restabilizing the jawbone so it can function better.
The Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
Successful orthognathic surgery has the potential to produce multiple benefits:
An Improved Bite
If your upper and lower teeth are unable to work harmoniously together, multiple problems can result. For example, you may experience persistent symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD), such as headaches and facial pain. Your teeth are also at an increased risk of damage. Orthognathic surgery can correct even severe bite problems, leading to improved oral function.
Enhanced Confidence
Problems with the positioning and shape of the jaw can often have a great effect on facial aesthetics. For example, your chin might look unusually weak or prominent. You may also have a noticeable lack of facial symmetry. Speech problems could also result from misaligned jaws and teeth. Orthognathic surgery can be used to reduce and possibly even eliminate such problems, allowing you to face the world with improved confidence.
Improved Sleep and Overall Health
Jaw health can play a key role in the functioning of your upper airway. A narrow or poorly positioned jaw can contribute to sleep-disordered breathing, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. OSA is associated with an increased risk of many health problems, including heart attack, stroke, emotional disorders, and more. Following jaw surgery, you may find that you enjoy improved sleep and heightened overall wellness.
Could You Benefit from Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is usually used as a last resort for severe cases of underbite, overbite, open bite, facial asymmetry, and sleep apnea. If you believe you need this procedure, the best thing to do is consult with an orthodontist or a qualified oral surgeon. After a thorough evaluation, they can recommend your next steps. Hopefully, you will soon be on your way to improved wellness!
Meet the Practice
Our practice is proud to be home to three board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons: Drs. Steve Koo, Thomas Weil, and William Shepard. They work together to provide top-quality services, including orthognathic surgery. If you believe you could benefit from this procedure, our team is ready to consult with you. Contact Piney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Houston at 713-783-5560.