Orthognathic Surgery

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Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones, specifically the jaws and the teeth. Often these abnormalities cause difficulty associated with chewing, talking, sleeping and other routine activities. Orthognathic surgery corrects these problems and, in conjunction with orthodontic treatment, will improve the overall appearance of the facial profile.

Using the latest in digital imaging technology, we will demonstrate the overall functional and aesthetic benefits of orthognathic surgery. Computerized treatment planning minimizes treatment times, recovery periods and the overall efficacy of your surgery. State-of-the-art materials such as titanium plates and miniature screws provide stability, strength and predictability to your treatment. These advances in technology, procedures and equipment reduce post-surgical recovery time, thus allowing patients to return to their normal routines soon after the surgery.

Facial Balance

Orthodontics is about more than straightening teeth. An orthodontist is trained to consider facial relationships that include lip balance and harmony of jaw relationships. The goals of orthodontics are not only to establish a sound bite, with a beautiful smile and a normal functioning Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). They are also intended  to create a pleasing lip balance along with a harmonious facial balance. Simply put: we want you to look as good as you can!

By far the most challenging aspect of orthodontics is influencing the skeletal relationship between the upper and lower jaw. While we have been successful with the application of dentofacial orthopedic techniques in a growing child, the challenges are more daunting for adult patients. Where this is readily apparent is in the extremes of skeletal relationships, whether it is a severely retrusive lower jaw or prognathic lower jaw. Fortunately there are combined surgical and orthodontic approaches that can correct these skeletal problems.

Prognathic Lower Jaw

The case presented here is of a patient with a prognathic lower jaw which is referred to as a Class III bite. The teeth are in an underbite with the lower teeth protruding out beyond the upper. The teeth reflect the underlying skeletal relationship which in severe circumstances can not be corrected with braces alone. When growth results in such a pronounced difference in the bite, both the function of the teeth and the appearance of the face are affected. It is important in these circumstances to wait for growth to be completed.

A careful assesment by the orthodontist and surgeon is necessary to consider where the actual problem lies. While the case presented is a prognathic lower jaw, an underbite can also be a result of a deficient upper jaw. The teeth alone do not tell the whole story. The surgical technique is chosen to correct the bite and create a harmonious facial balance.

As can be seen from this case, a beautiful profile reflects how successful a combined surgical orthodontic treatment can be.