ADA Accessibility Information
Accessibility

A
A

A
Surprise Smiles Logo
Request an Appointment Button
Facebook Button Google Read Reviews Button
Surprise (602) 842-4864
Prescott Valley (928) 277-0076
Prescott (928) 443-1200

What is Orthognathic Surgery?


Posted on 7/30/2016 by Andrew Zeiger
Gum Disease pain
Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that can correct jaw misalignment. There are many reasons why someone might need orthognathic surgery, and the results can dramatically change how your jaw functions.

Reasons Why You Might Need Jaw Surgery
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), there are many reasons why you might consider jaw surgery. They include but are not limited to:
•  Grinding of teeth
•  TMJ pain Difficulty swallowing
•  Difficulty eating food
•  Facial trauma
•  Sleep apnea


What is the Treatment Process Like?
Orthognathic surgery is a long, involved treatment process where your dentist, orthodontist, and oral and maxillofacial surgeon work together. Like most other treatment plans, a consultation is the first step, and you will be evaluated to see if you are a good candidate for orthognathic surgery.

Before the surgery can take place, you will most likely need orthodontic treatment to help the success of the surgery. Braces will align your teeth so that they are in the right position when your jaw is moved to its new alignment. The braces are on for about 9 to 14 months, and they are not removed until after the surgery. There is often a period of time where the braces are kept on post-surgery for any final adjustments to your teeth alignment.

The surgery itself will take about three hours, and it is done under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the jawbone will be adjusted, which could include removing bone, adding bone, or changing the shape of your jaw. It could also require adding screws or metal plates in order to keep your jaw in the correct position.

Recovery lasts about 1 to 3 weeks, and you will need to be on a special diet until you can transition to normal food. It will take between 9 and 12 months for your jaw to heal entirely.

If you have questions about orthognathic surgery and how it can affect the function of your jaw, contact our office today.
OUR PHILOSOPHY

Our Family Cares for Everyone in Your Family

Family Graphic Image
Surprise Smiles Logo
Get the Smile You've Always Wanted!

Surprise Smiles
15128 W Bell Rd, Suite 12
Surprise, AZ 85374
(602) 842-4864

Prescott Valley
7136 East Pav Way
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
(928) 277-0076

Prescott
172 E Merritt St.
Suite F
Prescott, AZ 86301
(928) 443-1200


Request an Appointment Button

Sign Up for E-Newsletter Button




Copyright © 2015-2023 Surprise Smiles and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
Dental Blog - Surprise, AZ • Surprise Smiles
Learn more, read our Dental Blogs! We Offer Quality Dental Care for the Whole Family in a Relaxed Professional Environment.
Surprise Smiles, 15128 W Bell Rd, Suite 12, Surprise, AZ 85374-2451 ^ (602) 842-4864 ^ surprisesmilesdental.com ^ 5/29/2023 ^ Page Phrases: Dentist Surprise AZ ^