Orthognathic Surgery

When jaws do not meet properly and/or teeth do not seem to fit with jaws, orthognathic surgery is needed. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. Surgery will not only improve one's facial appearance, but also ensure that teeth meet correctly and function accordingly.

If you have problems such as difficulty in:

Chewing, Biting or Swallowing
Speech problems
Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
Open bite
Protruding jaw
Breathing problems

You may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery. Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, or may be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary, environmental influences, or trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. By using comprehensive x-rays and computer imaging, we can show you how your bite and appearance will be improved after orthognathic surgery. This helps you to understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment suggested, and to see the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Drs. McIlwain, Carlson and Link will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. Orthognathic surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new alignment that produces a more attractive, functional dental-facial relationship.

Orthognathic surgery is done in the hospital on an in-patient basis. On day of discharge, the patient is seen at the office for immediate follow-up care.