Many people suffer from misaligned jaws and bite. This can be a result of a birth defect, poor jaw growth, or trauma to the face and mouth. Jaw problems can be corrected with orthodontics, but severe conditions may require corrective jaw surgery. Oral surgeons are specially trained to assess and treat jaw deformities and irregularities, which involves a complex procedure and a lot of precision.

Do I Need to Have Orthognathic Surgery?

In addition to gaining proper function and chewing ability, jaw surgery also alleviates pain and can improve speech and facial aesthetics. If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you may also be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, as this procedure can help open the airways and promote healthier breathing. You may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery if you are experiencing:

• Chronic jaw pain
• Difficulty eating
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
• Receding chin or lower jaw
• Involuntary mouth breathing
• An uneven bite or bite problems

Life-Changing Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery can positively impact a patient in many ways, including:

• Enhanced facial aesthetics and harmony with other facial features
• Relieve temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
• Improved chewing, speaking, and breathing
• Minimal treatment time
• Improve the ability to fully close lips

The Jaw Surgery Procedure

Our practice utilizes advanced imaging technology, including digital X-rays, 3D CBCT scanning, and the handheld iTero® scanner. During your first visit, we will take scans and create detailed images that will show our doctors the exact state of your mouth, teeth, and jaws. From there, we will design a customized treatment plan that is specific to your condition and needs. Dr. Foxson is board-certified and has undergone extensive hands-on training in a hospital-based setting for reconstructive surgeries. Our office also utilizes advanced sterilization equipment for our surgical instruments, which reduces the risk of cross-contamination.

On the day of your jaw surgery, your doctor will administer general anesthesia. This allows you to sleep comfortably during your surgery and wake up when it is over. Your doctor will move the jaws into their proper positions, then fix them into place using plates and screws. All incisions will be stitched closed, and you will rest in our office until the anesthesia wears off and you are ready to be driven home by your prearranged designated driver.

The results of your jaw surgery will be noticeable immediately. The final and permanent results will be revealed fully after the swelling and bruising subside. Full recovery usually takes a couple of weeks, and our instructions will tell you everything you need to know to ensure your recovery is quick and smooth.