When is Orthognathic Surgery Recommended?

A great smile is made of many individual details. More than simply having straight teeth, your skeletal structure must be properly aligned in order to achieve attractive esthetics and proper function.

Outside of braces and other orthodontic procedures that can straighten the teeth, you may need the help of an oral surgeon to realize your healthiest smile.

When the upper or lower jaws are not positioned well, the impact can be widespread. Your facial features may not appear to be proportionate, your speech pattern may be altered, and your ability to chew certain foods may be hindered.

In addition, teeth that are poorly aligned can be subject to significant damage. Excessive wear occurs over time, and eventual bone loss and gingival recession may be noted.

In many cases, braces or similar orthodontic options may be suitable solutions. Guiding the teeth into their proper positions without surgical intervention is often effective for resolving the cosmetic and functional issues.

When the core of the problem is skeletal in nature, your orthodontist may refer you to an oral surgeon for the proper treatment. It is even common for patients to undergo a combination of oral surgery and traditional orthodontics to achieve the most ideal result.

Some examples of skeletal or orthognathic conditions include patients whose mandible or lower jaw is too small or too large and patients with severe or chronic TMJ pain. A condition known as an open bite, in which the top and bottom teeth fail to come together, can also be corrected with orthognathic surgery. This form of corrective jaw surgery may be recommended to correct sleep apnea as well as many common birth defects.

Corrective or orthognathic surgical procedures may include treatment to the upper jaw, lower jaw, and sometimes the chin. With a balanced bite and a well-proportioned jaw, you can truly enjoy the benefits of a great smile. Speaking and chewing can be more rewarding than ever before, and the enhancement to your facial profile can be quite dramatic.

To find out how you may benefit from orthognathic surgery in the Upper York Region, contact the office of Dr. K. Ford Moore to schedule your professional consultation.