What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery (also known as orthognathic surgery) may be needed when traditional treatments like aligners or braces can't fully address complex issues like bite misalignment, jaw deformities, or severe malocclusion. These conditions can cause functional and aesthetic concerns, such as a protruding chin or misaligned jaw. At Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery, we specialize in orthognathic surgery to correct these issues and restore both form and function. This procedure may involve reshaping the jaw's bone, cartilage, and tissues to achieve optimal alignment. Contact our offices in Sheffield or Florence, AL today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for corrective jaw surgery.
How Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Performed?
Before creating your treatment plan, we'll sit down with you for a comprehensive oral exam, where we'll assess the shape of your jaw and bite alignment. We may take digital x-rays of your mouth to get a clearer view of your jawbone. Corrective jaw surgery is performed at our Sheffield and Florence, AL offices using general anesthesia. To start, your surgeon will make small incisions inside the mouth, allowing access to the jawbone. They will carefully readjust the position of your jaw, using plates, screws, and wires to hold it in place while you heal. If necessary, we may also recommend bone grafting surgery, which uses donor bone tissue to strengthen the jaw and provide more stability.
Recovery after corrective jaw surgery usually takes a few weeks. You will need to stick to liquid meals (like soups or meal replacement drinks) for at least the first week, slowly introducing softer foods as your jaw heals. Most patients can return to light activities after about 2 – 3 weeks, but full recovery may take 6 – 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery. Our team at Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery is here to support your recovery and provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing after your orthognathic surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
If you are struggling with a misaligned bite or complex jaw issues, traditional braces may not be enough. Corrective jaw surgery at Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery offers a solution for these cases, with benefits that include:
- Correcting bite issues and improving chewing function
- Enhancing facial appearance with improved jaw alignment
- Alleviating jaw pain and discomfort caused by misalignment
- Making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and overall dental health
- Improving speech by addressing jaw-related concerns
- Increasing comfort in daily activities such as eating and speaking
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Restore Your Bite with Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery can provide lasting relief and improve both your appearance and function. At Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery, we offer personalized care to help you address bite misalignment, jaw pain, and related concerns. Our oral surgeons in Sheffield and Florence, AL are ready to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth experience and effective results. Reach out today to learn how corrective jaw surgery can help restore comfort, confidence, and a healthier smile.
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Recovery
Following your operation, you will need to have a responsible adult pick you up and take you home. Dr. McIlwain urges you take approximately 1 – 3 weeks to rest and heal before slowly returning to work or school. Before your treatment begins, Dr. McIlwain will discuss surgical instructions, such as pain medication, diet limitations, and the best way to clean your mouth. It's also advisable to schedule follow-up appointments before your surgery, which will allow Dr. McIlwain to evaluate your recovery. Should you encounter any symptoms of disease, please contact us right away. Your jaw will likely need about three months to fully heal. After this, your orthodontic treatment may be initiated.