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.
PRE-SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS
Successful orthognathic (jaw) surgery requires careful planning and preparation. Orthodontic treatment is needed prior to jaw surgery to place the teeth in their ideal positions. This allows the jaws to be moved for optimal facial esthetics and function. Typically, pre-surgical orthodontics takes approximately 12-18 months. Once the teeth are properly positioned, patients wear an appliance called a repositioning splint. This clear, removable appliance allows the lower jaw to achieve a stable position prior to surgery. Skipping this critical step can result in inadequate surgical correction since the full extent of the jaw discrepancy may not be observed. Unfortunately, most orthodontists do not employ a repositioning splint prior to surgery. Braces are worn throughout the treatment including the surgery. Special attachments are added to the braces to assist the surgeon during the procedure. Prior to the surgery, several models are made for surgical planning. Dr. White and your surgeon will meet and simulate the surgical movements with the models to determine the exact amount of surgery required.
SURGICAL PHASE
The surgery usually takes place in the morning and typically lasts 2-5 hours, depending on the type of surgery. Your oral surgeon will reposition the jaws as determined in consultation with Dr. White. Following the surgery, your mouth will not be wired shut as in the past, but will be held firmly in place with rubber bands (elastics) while the healing process begins. The hospital stay is usually 1-2 days. It is very common to experience some swelling the majority of which is resolved in about 7 days. Initially, patients are required to eat soft foods or liquids. As healing continues, a more normal diet is restored and the elastics are reduced.
POST-SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS
Once the jaws are aligned, Dr. White is now able to begin the process of fitting the teeth together and correcting the bite. During the first 6-8 weeks following the surgery, Dr. White and your oral surgeon will check healing and monitor the progress of your elastics at 1-2 week intervals. After that, Dr. White will make adjustments to your braces to complete bite correction. Post-surgical orthodontic treatment is usually completed in 6-18 months after the surgery.
The decision to have surgical orthodontics is obviously, a very important decision. However, the rewards are a balanced face and a stable, healthy bite. Dr. White and his team go the extra mile to ensure a great result. Dr. White has attended numerous orthognathic surgery courses and has even hosted a seminar in Richmond by one of the world’s leading experts in facial reconstruction. Planning for orthognathic surgery prior to beginning treatment yields a significantly superior result than having jaw surgery as a “last resort” when all else fails. As well known author, Steven Covey, suggests, “begin with the end in mind”.
