Surgery to Reconstruct or Correct Jaw Structure

As the supportive bedrock that supports your healthy, natural teeth and force behind your biting and chewing power, your jaw is the literal foundation of your oral health. If your jaw has developed incorrectly or has suffered a traumatic injury, then it may not be able to function properly. This can lead to a host of conditions that includes difficulty biting, chewing, and speaking properly, the developing of a severe jaw dysfunction (TMJ disorder) and more. Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can describe one or more procedures designed to correct the size, shape, and alignment of your jaw so to optimize its ability to function properly.

What is jaw (orthognathic) surgery?

There are many non-surgical treatment options that can address the alignment of your teeth and, in some cases, your lower jaw’s position in relation to your upper jaw. However, conditions that impact the size or shape of your jaw may require surgery to address properly. Because your jaw has such a significant impact on your bite alignment and function, jaw surgery may be combined with orthodontic treatment to ensure proper alignment of your jaw and all other oral structures following your surgery.

What does the surgery correct?

When your jaw is symmetrical and properly proportioned, it’s able to glide smoothly on both of your jaw’s joints (temporomandibular joints) without causing undue stress. Concerns that require surgery to correct can also impact that ability to a severe degree, causing issues that can range from:

  • Difficulty opening and closing your jaw
  • Speech impediments
  • Bite dysfunctions (including teeth-grinding and TMJ disorder)
  • Visible effects to your facial appearance
  • Severe wear and damage to one or more teeth
  • And more

Preparing the appropriate corrections

The nature of jaw structural concerns can be highly unique, which is what makes corrective jaw surgery such a highly customized procedure. Before recommending surgery, we’ll utilize advanced digital imaging equipment, including 3D computed tomography (CT) scans, to get a detailed picture of your jaw and other oral structures. Digital imaging also helps us carefully plan the specific adjustments necessary to correct your jaw, and use the digital mapping as a guide during surgery for optimal results.

Schedule a consultation to learn more

If your jaw structure’s abnormality impacts its function, or you’ve recently suffered trauma to your jaw, then you may benefit from custom corrective jaw surgery. To schedule your consultation, call the Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery in Midlothian, TX, today at 469-649-8259. We also serve patients who live in Dallas, Mansfield, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Desoto, Red Oak, Waxahachie, Ft. Worth, and all surrounding communities.