Orthognathic means “straight” jaws. Orthognathic surgery is a procedure done to correct tooth position as well as correct jaw alignment. The goals of Orthognathic surgery are to help correct problems related with chewing, breathing and speech will improve patients appearance by balancing the jaw structures.
ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
The following is a list of possible reasons a patient may elect to undergo orthognathic surgery:
• Problems chewing
• Problems swallowing
• Speech difficulty
• Chronic jaw pain
• Excessive tooth wear
• Teeth do not come together properly
• Unbalanced facial appearance
• Excessive or receding jaws
• Inability to bring the lips together chronic mouth breathing
• Sleep apnea
Although many bite related problems can be corrected by orthodontics alone, it is estimated that 10% of this population may benefit from orthognathic surgery. A team approach, including your surgeon, orthodontist, as well as your dentist will get together and plan your care.
It is important that Dr. Raghu and your orthodontist work together closely throughout you treatment. It is advantageous to have both an orthodontic and surgical consultation before orthodontics is begun. As total treatment time may take approximately 2 years, proper planning is important to achieve the optimal result in an efficient time period.
At the initial treatment planning phase, a detailed discussion will take place regarding the sequencing of treatment, any additional dental care, and other adjunctive procedures.