Orthodontic surgery is also called jaw surgery. Generally, oral or maxillofacial surgeons collaborate with an orthodontist to perform orthodontic surgeries. This procedure helps to align your upper and lower jaws. If your jaws do not line up correctly, it might impact your bite and make it difficult for you to eat and communicate.

Candidates for orthodontic surgery

If you have done developing and have a significant malocclusion (bad bite) or jaw condition, such as the following, you may be a candidate for orthodontic surgery:

• Severe bite problems, such as overbite, crossbite, underbite, or open bite
• Face bones that are misaligned
• Difficulties while chewing or swallowing food
• Speech issues
• TMJ dysfunction
• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

Types of orthodontic surgeries:

Maxillary osteotomy:

The surgery on your upper jaw (maxilla) is known as a maxillary osteotomy.

The following conditions may necessitate a maxillary osteotomy:

1. Open bite
2. Crossbite
3. Midfacial hyperplasia

Mandibular osteotomy:

Surgery on your lower jaw (mandible) is called a mandibular osteotomy. You require this surgery when your lower jaw swells up or recedes considerably. When you get a mandibular osteotomy, your surgeon will do the following:

• Your surgeon will incise your gums on both sides of your lower jaw, right beneath your molars.
• Your surgeon will cut the lower jaw bone, which allows the surgeon to relocate it into a new place.
• Your surgeon will then change the position of your lower jawbone by moving it forwards or backward.
• The final step is to install plates or screws to secure the repositioned jawbone in place. To seal the incisions in your gums, surgeons stitch them.

Bimaxillary osteotomy:

Bimaxillary osteotomy is a procedure that involves both your upper and lower jaws. Surgeons perform this surgery when a problem affects both jaws. The methods involved in this surgery are similar to maxillary and mandibular osteotomy. Surgery on both the upper and lower jaws can be complex, so the surgeons use 3-D modeling software to assist in the planning of the surgery.

Genioplasty:

Genioplasty refers to chin surgery. It can aid in the correction of a receding chin. It is frequently used with a mandibular osteotomy to treat a receding lower jaw.

TMJ surgery:

Your orthodontist recommends TMJ surgery when other options do not cure TMJ dysfunction. There are several types of TMJ surgeries:

• Arthrocentesis: Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive technique. This surgery involves injecting fluid into the TMJ with tiny needles. The procedure helps lubricate the joint and wash away any leftover debris or inflammatory byproducts.
• Arthroscopy: During arthroscopy, surgeons insert a small tube called a cannula into the joint. The surgeon then operates on the joint with a narrow scope (arthroscope) and tiny instruments.
• Arthrotomy: The most invasive type of TMJ surgery is open joint surgery (arthrotomy). Your surgeon creates an incision in front of your ear for this surgery.

Conclusion

If you're considering Orthodontic surgery, the most critical step is to be sure about your choice. Orthodontic surgeries are substantial procedures that can cause significant disruption in your life for several weeks or months. You should know what to expect from your orthodontic surgery. Therefore, it is important to discuss your alternatives and expectations with your healthcare professionals.

To learn more about Orthodontics Surgeries, Contact your Danville dentist, Dr. Hoss Abar, DDS, MSD at Danville Orthodontics.

Resource:

Things You Need To Know About Surgical Orthodontics.

This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition