Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
At Mack Orthodontics, we understand that not all orthodontic issues can be resolved with traditional treatments like braces.
For more complex cases involving jaw and facial irregularities, we offer a solution known as orthognathic surgery, performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
When Braces Alone Aren't Enough
While modern orthodontic techniques can address many dental concerns, some cases require additional intervention. Dr. Mack recommends orthognathic or corrective jaw surgery when non-surgical methods may not fully resolve the issue.
This procedure can effectively correct severe orthodontic problems, such as underbites, congenital abnormalities, and sleep apnea. Don't worry; orthognathic surgery is a safe and effective solution that can transform your smile and improve your quality of life.
Who Performs Orthodontic Jaw Surgery?
When considering orthognathic surgery, you'll be in the capable hands of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. These skilled professionals undergo extensive training beyond standard dental school, spending four years in a hospital-based residency program.
Their expertise in areas like emergency medicine, general surgery, and anesthesiology ensures you receive the best possible care throughout the surgical process.
Who Can Benefit from Surgical Orthodontics?
People who have problems with jaws, tooth alignment, and facial asymmetries, which create difficulties chewing, talking, sleeping, or carrying on routine activities, may benefit from orthognathic (jaw) surgery.
Surgery can also correct aesthetic issues, such as a protruding jaw, congenital disabilities, or an unbalanced facial appearance.
After a thorough examination at our Burlington or Hillsborough office and a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon— we can let you know if you're a candidate for orthognathic surgery.
If orthodontic treatment can solve the problem, that's where you'll start. Yet, while orthodontics can successfully align the teeth, the jaws sometimes need to be brought into line.
In most cases, orthodontic appliances, such as braces and retainers, will be used before and after the surgical phase of treatment to ensure that you have amazing results.
Conditions We Can Treat
Many conditions can be successfully treated with corrective orthognathic surgery, including:
- Open bite, protruding jaw, or receding chin
- Congenital disabilities such as a cleft palate
- Malocclusions (bite problems) resulting from underbites or severe overjets
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea, when more conservative methods fail
- Chronic jaw or jaw joint (TMJ) pain and headache
- Unbalanced facial appearance from the front or side
- Inability to make the lips meet without straining
- Facial trauma
The Surgical Process
While everybody has different needs, it's possible to outline some typical steps in the process. The first component is consultation and planning among members of the dental team. This includes your restorative or general dentist, Dr. Mack, and the oral surgeon.
The overall plan we recommend for you may involve orthodontic treatments and surgical procedures.
Using diagnostic images, 3D models, and advanced software, Dr. Mack will develop a step-by-step plan for the entire process. We can even show you a picture of what you'll look like after treatment.
The surgery may occur at the hospital or our office, with the type of anesthesia most appropriate for the procedure and your comfort. Because the surgery takes place inside the mouth, you won't have any visible scarring.
After the procedure, you can use over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to control minor pain and swelling. Dr. Mack may recommend a soft or liquid diet following the procedure.
Following surgery, we'll closely monitor your condition and help you through each phase of the treatment plan.
When it's complete, you can enjoy the benefits of improved functionality and an enhanced appearance; we think you'll also find it creates positive changes in many areas of your life.
Start Your Smile Transformation
If you have orthodontic issues holding you back from your best smile, Mack Orthodontics is here to help. Dr. Mack can evaluate your smile to create a treatment plan that gives you the best results and a healthier smile.
To learn if you’re a candidate for surgical orthodontics, contact our Burlington or Hillsborough office to schedule a free consultation. Let’s start your journey to the smile of your dreams!