Home › Oral Surgery Procedures › Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic Surgery
East Syracuse, NY
Orthognathic Surgery provided by David Thurber, DDS
in East Syracuse, NY at David Thurber, DDS - Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
 Our jaw is perhaps the most overlooked aspect of our oral health. If you suffer from jaw-related problems, you may qualify for orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic, or corrective jaw surgery, typically addresses the intricacies of occlusion (the way your teeth fit together).
There are many reasons you may need orthognathic surgery, with many variations on the procedure. At David Thurber, DDS - Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we will be able to determine if you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery. Surgical intervention may be the best way to alleviate severe, and often painful symptoms related to jaw disorders.
Reasons for Orthognathic Surgery
There are many patients who can benefit from orthognathic surgery, especially those with TMD or a malocclusion (misaligned bite). We may recommend jaw surgery to:
| • |
Correct problems with speech
|
| • |
Correct problems that affect chewing or swallowing
|
| • |
Correct issues that occur when you open or close your mouth
|
| • |
Correct a facial imbalance for cosmetic and functional reasons
|
| • |
Address birth defects or abnormalities
|
| • |
Minimize the problems associated with bruxism (clenching or teeth grinding)
|
| • |
Minimize problems associated with TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder)
|
| • |
Repair a facial injury or trauma
|
| • |
Alleviate the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea |
Corrective jaw surgery is usually the last line of defense after other treatments have been exhausted. During your consultation appointment, David Thurber, DDS will perform a series of diagnostic tests to determine if orthognathic surgery is right for you. This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions and voice any concerns.
Preparation for Orthognathic Surgery
Orthodontic treatment is usually a large part of the preparation for corrective jaw surgery. In most cases, we may enlist the help of an orthodontist to place braces on your teeth. The braces are usually in place for about 12 to 18 months before your surgery.
X-rays and CBCT scans are also an important part of the preparation process. These diagnostic tools help us develop a more precise and appropriate treatment plan. In particular, 3D imaging can help us design a surgical guide that results in safer and more effective surgery.
Types of Orthognathic Surgery
In most cases, the surgery is performed inside your oral cavity to avoid facial scars around your chin, jaw, and mouth. The type of orthognathic surgery you receive depends on your symptoms. Types of corrective jaw surgery include:
| • |
Lower Jaw. Also known as a mandibular osteotomy, this type of surgery can help correct a receding or protruding lower jaw.
|
| • |
Upper Jaw. Also known as maxillary osteotomy, this type of surgery can correct open bites, cross bites, or a significantly protruding or receded upper jaw.
|
| • |
Chin surgery. Also known as a genioplasty, this type of surgery can correct a deficient chin, usually accompanied by a severely receded lower jaw. |
After Orthognathic Surgery
After your orthognathic surgery, you should see improved function of your teeth, a balanced appearance, and several other health benefits that improve chewing, swallowing, sleeping, and breathing. Be sure to follow our post-operative instructions to avoid potential complications.
The healing period for orthognathic surgery typically takes about six to 12 weeks. We usually recommend avoiding tobacco use, difficult foods, and strenuous activity. Talk with David Thurber, DDS to learn more about life after corrective jaw surgery.
Schedule Your Surgical Consultation
Find out if you may need orthognathic surgery. Call 315-457-9999 to schedule your surgical consultation today. |
