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Oral Surgery in Houston, TX

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons of Houston

Corrective jaw surgery, also known as "orthognathic" surgery, is performed to correct various facial skeletal and/or dental irregularities. The word "orthognathic" is derived from two Greek words; "ortho" refers to straight, and "gnathic" refers to jaws. Orthognathic surgery, performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons, not only can improve your smile and appearance, but it also can improve your ability to chew and speak. Other benefits may include the relief of facial pain, headaches, snoring and obstructive sleep disorders. While a patient's appearance may be dramatically enhanced as a result of surgery, corrective jaw surgery is performed primarily to rectify functional problems.

Orthognathic surgery may reposition all or part of the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin. In some cases, facial cosmetic surgery may be done simultaneously with orthognathic surgery, and patients are encouraged to inquire about possible options that are available, and discuss them with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Who Needs Corrective Jaw Surgery?

People who benefit from orthognathic surgery are those whose misaligned teeth and jaws create in an improper bite. Jaw growth is a gradual process, and the upper and lower jaws may occasionally grow at different rates. This can cause functional problems including difficulty with chewing, speaking, breathing, sleeping and overall oral health. A severe misalignment may affect a person’s appearance and produce psychological or emotional problems.

Jaw or head injuries and birth defects may also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontic braces usually correct bite problems caused by tooth misalignment, and orthognathic surgery corrects jaw misalignment.

Conditions That May Indicate the Need for Orthognathic Surgery:

Difficulty chewing or biting food
Difficulty swallowing
Chronic jaw or jaw joint (TMJ) pain and headache
Excessive wear on the teeth
Open bite (space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed)
Unbalanced facial appearance from the front or side
Facial injury or birth defects
Receding chin
Protruding jaw
Inability to make one’s lips meet without straining
Chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth
Sleep apnea (breathing problems when sleeping, including snoring)

Evaluating Your Need for Orthognathic Surgery

Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon works closely with your dentist and orthodontist to determine whether orthognathic surgery is recommended, and which procedure is deemed appropriate.

Prior to surgery, your medical health history is reviewed, and a thorough examination – including facial measurements, photographs, X-rays, bite recordings and dental impressions is completed.