Orthognathic Surgery: Fix Jaw & Bite Issues
Have you been told that braces alone won’t fully address your bite issues? You might be a candidate for orthognathic surgery, commonly known as jaw surgery. This transformative procedure goes beyond cosmetic improvements; it can dramatically enhance your oral function, breathing, and overall quality of life.
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a corrective jaw surgery designed to realign your upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. While orthodontic treatment like braces can straighten teeth, it cannot always correct significant skeletal discrepancies in jaw positioning. That’s where jaw alignment surgery comes in.
At Liberty Hill Orthodontics, Dr. Scot O’Donnell works closely with oral surgeons to coordinate comprehensive treatment plans that combine orthodontics with surgical correction when necessary. This collaborative approach ensures you receive the most effective care for your specific needs.
Who Needs Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Not everyone with bite problems requires surgery. However, you might benefit from jaw surgery if you experience:
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Chronic jaw or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
- Open bite (teeth don’t touch when mouth is closed)
- Protruding jaw or receding chin
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Sleep apnea or breathing difficulties
- Birth defects or injuries affecting jaw structure
These conditions can’t typically be corrected with braces alone. Corrective jaw surgery addresses the underlying skeletal problems, creating lasting functional and aesthetic improvements.
The Treatment Process
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
Before surgery, you’ll wear braces for approximately 12–18 months. This phase moves your teeth into positions that will align properly once your jaws are repositioned. Your teeth may actually look worse during this phase, but that’s normal and completely expected!
The Surgical Procedure
An oral surgeon performs the actual jaw alignment surgery in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. The procedure typically involves making incisions inside your mouth (leaving no visible scars), repositioning the jaw bones, and securing them with tiny plates and screws. Most patients stay overnight for observation.
Post-Surgical Orthodontics
After recovery, you’ll continue wearing braces for several more months to fine-tune your bite and ensure everything aligns perfectly. Dr. O’Donnell carefully monitors your progress throughout this final phase.
Recovery and Results
Initial recovery from orthognathic surgery takes about 6–12 weeks, though you’ll likely return to work or school within 2–3 weeks. You’ll follow a modified diet during healing, gradually transitioning from liquids to soft foods and eventually back to normal eating.
While recovery requires patience, the results are life-changing. Patients report improved chewing function, reduced pain, better breathing, enhanced facial aesthetics, and increased confidence.
Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?
If you’ve struggled with bite problems, facial imbalance, or chronic jaw pain, it’s time to explore your options. The team at Liberty Hill Orthodontics can evaluate whether you’re a candidate for corrective jaw surgery and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. O’Donnell has extensive experience coordinating surgical cases and will guide you through every step of the process. Don’t let jaw misalignment hold you back from living your best life.
Ready to learn more? Call Liberty Hill Orthodontics at 512-548-5040 to schedule your consultation. Together, we’ll determine the best path forward for your unique situation and help you achieve the healthy, functional smile you deserve.
