Orthognathic Surgery

Since the teeth are supported by the jaws (upper jaw- maxilla, lower jaw-mandible), the relationship of upper and lower jaws will affect how teeth occlude. If this relationship deviates from normal range, an ideal occlusion will be difficult to achieve with merely orthodontic treatment. In that case, a surgical correction (i.e. orthognathic surgery) will be needed to help correct the jaw position.

General guidelines for orthognathic surgery

• Surgery is performed only after physical growth is complete.
• Prior to surgery, orthodontic treatment is usually necessary to re-align the teeth and re-establish the teeth into the projected occlusion.
• Depending upon the problem, surgery can be operated for single jaw or both jaws.
• In many cases, wisdom teeth will need to be extracted before the surgery.
• Recovery time normally takes about four to six weeks. Speech may be impeded during the first two weeks, therefore, leave from work or school should be planned in advance.
• May look into medical insurance plan for coverage.