Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Worth It?

Jan

Living with jaw pain, misalignment, or difficulty chewing can be exhausting. These issues don’t just make day-to-day life uncomfortable—they can take a toll on your overall health and confidence. If you’ve tried braces, retainers, or other treatments but still aren’t getting relief, it might be time to consider corrective jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery.

So, what is corrective jaw surgery? And, more importantly, is it right for you? Let’s dive into what this procedure involves and how it could make a big difference in your life.

What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery is a procedure that addresses problems with your jaw’s alignment, the position of your teeth, or issues caused by injury or birth defects. While the term “surgery” can sound intimidating, this procedure is designed to solve some of the toughest dental and facial issues, making daily tasks like eating, speaking, and even sleeping easier.

The term “orthognathic” comes from the Greek words “orthos” (to straighten) and “gnathic” (relating to the jaw). And that’s exactly what this surgery does—straightens and realigns your jaw to improve function and comfort.

What Qualifies You For Orthognathic Surgery?

When your jaw isn’t aligned properly, it can cause more problems than you might expect. For starters, chewing can become difficult or even painful, which affects how well you digest your food. You might also struggle with chronic jaw pain, trouble speaking, or even breathing issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Here are some signs that corrective jaw surgery might be worth considering:

You have an open bite (your upper and lower teeth don’t meet when you close your mouth).
You’re dealing with malocclusion (overbite or underbite) that causes discomfort.
You have impacted teeth or other dental alignment issues.
You experience chronic jaw pain or temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
You’re struggling with sleep apnea and other treatments haven’t worked.
Your facial features feel unbalanced, or you have a congenital defect like a cleft palate.
You’ve had braces but still experience problems with your jaw alignment.

If any of these issues sound familiar, corrective jaw surgery could be the solution you’ve been searching for.

What to Expect

The process begins with a thorough evaluation to determine if surgery is the right choice. This might include X-rays, CT scans, or even orthodontic treatments to prepare your teeth and jaw.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of what to expect during surgery:

Preparation: You’ll receive a local anesthetic to numb the area, and if you’re feeling anxious, sedation options are available to help you relax.
The Procedure: Your surgeon will make incisions to access the jawbone, then reshape, add, or remove bone as needed. They’ll stabilize the jaw using wires, screws, or metal plates.
Closure and Recovery: Once the adjustments are made, the area is sutured, and you’ll begin your healing journey.

Depending on the complexity of your case, the procedure can take anywhere from one to several hours. Recovery times vary, but with proper care and follow-up, you’ll soon notice a significant improvement in your quality of life.

5 Benefits to Look Forward to

The advantages of corrective jaw surgery go beyond just fixing alignment. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Pain Relief: Chronic jaw pain caused by misalignment or TMD can finally be alleviated.
Improved Function: Chewing, speaking, and even breathing become easier and more natural.
Better Digestion: With proper chewing, your body can better break down food, improving overall health.
Restful Sleep: Jaw adjustments can improve airflow, reduce sleep apnea, and help you feel more rested.
Boosted Confidence: Improved jaw alignment can enhance your appearance, leaving you feeling more self-assured.

We’ll Guide You Through Every Step

Deciding to undergo corrective jaw surgery is a big step, but for many people, it’s one that transforms their lives for the better. If you’re living with pain, difficulty eating, or frustration over how your jaw issues impact your everyday life, this procedure could be the solution you need.

At Rockwall Oral Surgery, we’re here to help. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, from your initial consultation to post-surgery recovery. Reach out today to learn more about how corrective jaw surgery can help you feel and live better.

For more information or to schedule an appointment visit our contact page.