What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a specialised branch of oral and maxillofacial surgery that focuses on correcting irregularities in the jaw and facial structure.
It involves precise surgical techniques to reposition the upper and lower jaws, align the teeth, and improve the aesthetic and functional aspects of a person’s face.
Congenital Jaw Conditions Requiring Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is commonly recommended to address a variety of congenital jaw conditions, including:
Crossbite: A dental misalignment issue where a few upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. It can affect one or more teeth and occur in the front or back of the mouth. Crossbites can lead to dental problems like premature wear and difficulty chewing.
Underbite: An underbite is a jaw condition where the lower jaw stretches beyond the upper jaw when the mouth is closed. This misalignment can affect both the appearance and functionality of the teeth. It can result in difficulty in biting and chewing.
Overbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend beyond the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. While a slight overbite is normal, excessive overbites can lead to issues like tooth wear and jaw discomfort.
Cleft Lip and Palate: Congenital conditions where a baby is born with a split or opening in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate). These conditions affect a child’s ability to eat, speak, and even breathe.
Pierre Robin Sequence: A congenital condition characterised by a smaller-than-normal lower jaw (micrognathia), a tongue that falls back in the throat (glossoptosis), and a cleft palate. This condition can result in breathing and feeding difficulties in newborns.
Jaw Problems from Injuries and Medical Conditions
Facial Fractures: Breaks or cracks in the bones of the face, often caused by trauma or accidents. These fractures can affect the jaw, cheekbones, nose, or eye sockets.
Cysts: Jaw cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop within the jawbone. They may not always cause symptoms but can lead to discomfort, swelling, and even jawbone damage.
Tumours: Jaw tumours can be benign or malignant growths in the jawbone. While benign tumours are non-cancerous, malignant ones can be cancerous.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A disorder characterised by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often due to the relaxation of throat muscles. OSA can be associated with jaw problems, such as a small lower jaw.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ Disorders)
TMJ disorders are conditions that have an impact on the temporomandibular joint, a hinge that connects the jaw to the skull. These disorders can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty in jaw movement. Treatment options include:
• Lifestyle changes
• Physical therapy
• Oral appliances
• Surgery
Ideal Candidates for Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw misalignments that affect facial appearance or function.
Difficulty biting, chewing, or speaking due to jaw issues.
Sleep apnea or breathing problems related to jaw position.
Facial asymmetry concerns due to jaw discrepancies.
Commitment to post-surgery orthodontic treatment for best results.
Steps Involved in Orthognathic Surgery
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01Consultation: Your oral health and jaw condition will be thoroughly assessed during this appointment.
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02Treatment Planning: A personalised treatment plan outlining the specific corrective procedures required.
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03Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Initiated to align the teeth and create an ideal bite before the surgery.
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04Surgery: Performed under general anaesthesia; involves repositioning and securing jawbones using specialised techniques.
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05Recovery: A healing period requiring a liquid or soft diet to promote proper healing and minimal discomfort.
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06Post-Surgical Orthodontics: Continued treatment to fine-tune the bite and final tooth alignment.
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07Follow-Up: Regular appointments to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is successful.
Orthognathic surgery is a life-changing procedure that improves both jaw function and facial aesthetics.
Call +91 99520 99620Email: bmcosmeticclinic@gmail.com