Jaw (orthognathic) surgery is surgery performed to correct
deformities of the upper and lower jaw bones. These deformities can present as
bad bites together with poor facial aesthetics. Functions such as chewing, breathing
and speech can be affected. Occasionally, the jaw joints are also painful and incoordinated during normal functions.
The causes of jaw deformities are:
1. Developmental or
growth
a. Long or short
lower jaw
b. Long or short upper
jaw
c. Combination of
both
d. Asymmetry
2. Trauma
a. Jaw deformities
following accidents
b.
Jaw deformites
following infection of the jaw joints
c. Jaw deformites following tumour in the jaw bone or jaw joint
3. Cleft lip/ palate
and craniofacial syndromes
If your bad bites cannot be satisfactorily corrected with
orthodontics alone, certainly jaw surgery can be indicated. The greatest
advantage of jaw surgery is that besides improvement in the bad bites, the
facial aesthetics is greatly enhanced with harmonisation
of the face. Most patients have increased self esteem and confidence.
Patients who have failed preliminary surgeries for snoring (sleep apnoea) may also benefit from jaw surgery.
Jaw surgery is performed by repositioning the jaw bones into their
“normal” position. Careful planning is required with pre-operative x-rays,
study models of the teeth and computer simulation. Most of the surgery is
performed inside the mouth without any external scarring. The bone where the surgical movements are performed are fixed
with titanium bone plates for rigid stability. A period where your teeth are
tied together may be required.
The surgery usually requires hospitalisation
and a period of recuperation, ranging from two weeks to six weeks. Where the
surgery is minimal, it can be done on a “day surgery” basis. General anaesthesia is required together with pre-operative
assessment of the general health.
Prior to surgical correction, malalignment
of your teeth must be corrected with braces (orthodontics). This will give the
surgeon a guide to reposition the bones accurately. Close cooperation between a
trained orthodontist and a surgeon is very vital in the overall success of jaw
surgery.
Jaw surgery is usually performed
in an individual whose growth has stabilised. For a
boy, it is usually after 16-18 years and for a girl, slightly earlier. In some
conditions, surgery can be performed earlier.
Jaw surgery is performed routinely by an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. He is one who is trained in their particular aspect of the face. Inherent in the training is a great understanding of growth in the facial bones in relation to the dentition and jaw joints, coupled with a sound surgical knowledge.
Jaw surgery is a major surgery. As with any surgery, complications
ranging from minor to major can occur. However, with great care, experience and
planning, these can mostly be avoided. It is generally safe to undergo this
form of surgery. The areas of concern
are injuries to the sensory nerves, infection and relapse of the bone movement.
The jaw joints are also area of concern.
Disclaimer:
The above FAQs are strictly for
information only. It is NOT intended as treatment advice over the Internet. See
your Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon or Orthodontist to assess your individual
need.