Most people assume that braces or Invisalign® are the only solution to bite issues. However, some bite issues stem from the position of the jaw bones themselves rather than the teeth. In fact, about 2% of people in the United States may need orthognathic surgery, also called corrective jaw surgery, to fix a bite or jaw problem.
Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure that corrects jaw alignment problems that braces or Invisalign® alone can't solve. When the jaw bones don't line up properly, activities such as chewing, speaking, and breathing can become more difficult. Learning the signs of these issues can help you decide when it's time to seek professional care.
Keep reading to learn about jaw misalignment symptoms, when braces or Invisalign® may not be enough, and when to schedule an evaluation with the best orthodontist in Palo Alto.
Is Your Bite Problem More Than Just Crooked Teeth?
Most people think crooked teeth are the problem. Sometimes, though, the real issue is the way the jaws fit together. When the jaws are out of alignment, the teeth may not meet correctly.
While braces and Invisalign® can move teeth into better positions, they cannot change the position of jaw bones. Because of this, orthodontic treatment alone may not be sufficient to fully correct certain bite issues.
In these situations, orthognathic surgery corrects jaw alignment and improves how the teeth and jaws function together. Only a professional evaluation can determine whether orthognathic surgery is necessary. However, understanding jaw misalignment symptoms can help you determine whether your concerns go beyond crooked teeth.
Signs You May Need Orthognathic Surgery for Jaw Misalignment
Patients often ask, “How do I know if I need corrective jaw surgery?” Every case is unique, but there are several signs that may indicate your bite problem involves the jaw bones rather than just the teeth. Jaw misalignment symptoms include:
- Difficulty chewing or biting into food
- Trouble swallowing
- Problems speaking clearly
- Ongoing jaw fatigue or pain
- Problems closing your mouth comfortably
- Frequent headaches related to jaw strain
- Excessive tooth wear
- Difficulty keeping your teeth together naturally
Jaw misalignment can also present itself in various visible signs, such as:
- A severe underbite or overbite
- An open bite
- A receding chin
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
Can Braces Fix My Jaw, or Do I Need Surgery?
A common misconception about orthodontic treatment is that braces or Invisalign® can correct every type of bite problem. In reality, braces and orthognathic surgery serve different purposes. Braces move teeth, while surgery changes the position of the jaws. If your bite issue comes from crooked or crowded teeth, braces may be enough. But when the jaws are misaligned, surgery may be necessary to achieve a healthy bite.
Many patients often wear braces before corrective jaw surgery to move the teeth into the right position. They may also wear braces after surgery to improve the final bite. The best way to find out if braces or Invisalign® can correct the problem is through a professional evaluation.
Will Jaw Surgery Help Sleep Apnea?
In some cases, yes. Some people develop sleep apnea because the position of their jaws restricts airflow during sleep. Common signs include loud snoring, chronic mouth breathing, morning headaches, and feeling tired throughout the day.
For patients with these symptoms, corrective jaw surgery can be an effective solution. Orthognathic surgery can open up the airway by moving the jaws into a better position. This may help reduce sleep apnea symptoms and improve sleep quality.
What to Expect From the Orthognathic Surgery Process
The orthognathic surgery process is carefully planned and typically begins months before the actual procedure takes place. Before the surgical procedure, patients undergo a thorough evaluation. This often includes digital scans, X-rays, photographs, and other imaging that help the doctor plan treatment. Additionally, many patients wear braces for several months before surgery. This helps move the teeth into the right position.
During orthognathic surgery, doctors administer general anesthesia to keep patients asleep and comfortable for the procedure. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon makes small incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones and move them into the correct position. In some cases, screws, small plates, or wires help hold the jawbones in place. Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon closes the incisions with dissolvable stitches.
Jaw surgery recovery can take several weeks, and most patients stay in the hospital for the first few days. Recovery often includes some swelling and discomfort. Most patients also need to follow a diet of liquids and soft foods for a period of time. Doctors schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor recovery, with some patients continuing orthodontic treatment after surgery to improve the final result.
Patients often notice improvements soon after surgery. However, swelling can take up to a year to fully resolve.
Need Jaw Surgery? Start With the Best Orthodontist in Palo Alto
Orthognathic surgery corrects bite problems that stem from jaw misalignment. If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain, difficulty chewing and talking, or tooth wear, a consultation can determine whether surgery is the right choice.
Dr. Merna Tajaddod and her team create treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs. A Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Dr. Tajaddod combines decades of experience with advanced training from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Whether you need braces, jaw surgery, or a combination of both, she can help you understand your options.
Looking for a professional evaluation to determine if orthognathic surgery is right for you?
