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.
Orthognathic surgery may be unnecessary if orthodontic treatment can correct the problem. With the latest advances in orthodontics, this is sometimes the case. We will determine if orthognathic surgery is the correct treatment option for you.
Dr. White has completed numerous continuing education courses on corrective jaw surgery, and has even hosted a seminar in Richmond by one of the world’s leading experts in facial reconstruction. He is highly trained and experienced in the latest treatment techniques and technologies available to ensure our patients achieve optimum results.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
Successful jaw surgery requires careful planning and preparation. Braces are needed prior to surgery to place the teeth in their ideal position.
Facts about Pre-surgical orthodontics:
- The pre-surgical phase lasts 12-18 months.
- A repositioning splint will be worn prior to surgery to help stabilize the position of the jaw.
- Braces are worn throughout treatment, including the surgical phase.
- Special models are made prior to surgery to help with surgical planning.
Surgical Phase
Once your teeth are in position and the jaw has been stabilized, Dr. White will work with an oral surgeon to plan your jaw surgery.
Facts about the surgical phase:
- Surgery lasts two to five hours.
- Jaws will be repositioned according to surgical plan established by Dr. White.
- Special rubber bands will be used to firmly hold your mouth in place. (We do NOT wire shut your mouth.)
- Hospital stay is usually one to two days.
- Swelling is common and may last up to seven days.
- A soft food/liquid diet is required initially. A normal diet is restored when rubber bands are reduced.
Post-surgical Orthodontics
Now that the jaws are properly aligned, Dr. White can begin the process of correcting your bite. He will work in conjunction with your oral surgeon for the first six to eight weeks to monitor the recovery progress. After this time, Dr. White will begin to make adjustments to your braces to begin bite correction.
Facts about post-surgical phase:
- One to two week appointments are necessary right after surgery to monitor healing.
- Post-surgical phase lasts six to 18 months.
Our top priority is to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile and a properly functioning bite. We promise to go the extra mile to ensure a great result.
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Before & After
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