When your jaw is misaligned, it can make simple tasks like eating, speaking, breathing, and even sleeping incredibly difficult. When your jaw misalignment is mild, it can often be treated by your orthodontist. When you have a more severe case of jaw misalignment, however, you will most likely require orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery in addition to orthodontics.
With corrective jaw surgery, oral surgeons can reposition your jaws to align properly, allowing you to regain your ability to perform simple tasks such as those mentioned above. A common bonus result of jaw surgery is corrected and/or improved appearance, which gives patients a new wave of confidence in themselves. If you're interested in jaw surgery or would like to hear more about how it can benefit you, please feel free to watch the videos below and hear about it from our past patients.
Jaw surgery (also known as orthognathic surgery) sometimes becomes necessary when braces and orthodontic treatment alone are not enough to correct a person’s bite. Misaligned jaws can be caused by genetic factors, facial injuries, or other environmental influences.
Jaw problems can cause a variety of issues, from difficulty eating and speaking to headaches and jaw pain. Getting treatment for your jaw misalignment can drastically improve the appearance and function of your jaw.
Treating jaw alignment problems can prevent other issues later on in life. Jaw misalignment is associated with the following issues:
If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, and you think you may be suffering from jaw problems, contact our office today. Our surgeons are experts in a variety of different jaw treatments, and they will be able to help you find the best possible treatment.
If you suffer from jaw misalignment, orthognathic surgery, more commonly known as corrective jaw surgery, may be right for you. During this treatment, our surgical team will work hand in hand with your orthodontist to perfect your bite and improve your smile. First, advanced 3D imaging technology will be used to take scans of your jaw. This allows our surgeons to have the most accurate possible view before forming your treatment plan. Your orthodontist will prepare your teeth for their new alignment with braces before the surgery. During the procedure, your oral surgeon will separate the jaw, then reposition the bones into their new, proper alignment. After the surgery your orthodontist will adjust your braces to make any final, minor adjustments to perfect your bite.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to lower blood oxygen levels, restless sleep, daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, cardiac problems, and other complications. Sleep apnea can often be controlled through the prescription of a CPAP machine or weight loss, but in some cases surgery is the best option for treatment.
In cases where the jaw is not properly aligned, the opening between the tongue and throat can become more constricted during sleep, leading to sleep apnea and snoring problems. Jaw surgery can open the airway and allow air to pass through without issue.
Before any surgery is recommended to treat sleep apnea, one of our surgeons will perform a detailed examination of your entire face and throat region. A sleep study may also be ordered to determine the severity of your condition. If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea or you have been recommended for an evaluation by one of our surgeons, contact our office in Kennewick, WA, for a consultation.
