Orthognathic surgery is used to correct severe jaw malposition by repositioning one or both jaws. If the jaws don’t grow correctly, they don’t meet, or the teeth don’t bite together, then surgical procedures might be required to correct the problem. The benefits of jaw surgery are the improvement of jaw function, alignment, and overall facial appearance.

Who Needs Corrective Jaw Surgery?

 

CT Scan Cephalometric Evaluation

Naperville Patients who can benefit from jaw surgery are those with an incorrect bite that can’t be corrected with orthodontics alone, or patients with incorrect jaw positioning. The growth of the jaw is gradual, and sometimes one or both jaws grow too much or too little. Asymmetric growth can also pose problems with the positioning of the jaw.

cephalometric tracing
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When these serious jaw problems are treated only with orthodontics, it is common for the bite correction to relapse over time. The most effective treatment is a combination of jaw surgery and orthodontics so the patient can enjoy long-term correction of the malocclusion. Additionally, patients find that this surgery helps to improve self-image because of the balance created in the facial features.

If you have any of the following issues, it might be time to talk to an oral surgeon about treatment options:

  • Abnormal chewing function
  • Jaw muscle and joint problems
  • Open bite
  • TMJ clicking and pain
  • Limited opening of the mouth
  • Speech problems
  • Breathing problems
  • Daytime clenching
  • Teeth are wearing down from an improper bite
  • Teeth shifting in the mouth
  • Tooth fracturing because of the force of an abnormal bite

Most Naperville patients don’t require surgery, because these bite problems can be corrected with orthodontics. If surgery is needed as well, then a general dentist and/or orthodontist will offer the recommendation that you should visit with an oral surgeon.

Technology & Corrective Jaw Surgery

Advances in dental technology can be used to improve the surgical treatment plan and approach. Drs. Blecha and Jandali use modern CT scanning that produces 3D models. The combination of CT scans and facial x-rays show a clear picture of the structure of the jaw. The doctor will discuss how the surgery will improve your bite, as well as the way Orthognathic surgery will impact your appearance.

Are you a candidate for corrective jaw surgery? Contact our office in Naperville, IL to schedule a consultation to learn more about these treatment options. Drs. Blecha and Jandali will work with your dentist and orthodontist to coordinate an overall treatment plan for optimal results.