If your jaws don’t meet correctly and your teeth don’t seem to “fit” with your jaws, you may have a bite problem that makes eating difficult. Your face may appear “off balance”, and you may not be happy with the way you look. Your bones and teeth may have grown that way since you were a child, or you may have injured your face. Whatever the reason, your teeth and facial bones can be repositioned to create a more balanced appearance with jaws and teeth functioning properly.

  Underdeveloped Lower Jaw                      Overdeveloped Lower Jaw

Our surgeons perform dozens of jaw surgeries each year. Corrective jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, is needed when jaws don't meet correctly or when teeth don't fit with the jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery realigns the jaws. This not only improves facial appearance but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Who needs corrective jaw surgery?

People who can benefit from corrective jaw surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and, in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects also can affect jaw alignment. While orthodontics alone can correct bite problems if only the teeth are involved, corrective jaw surgery may be required if the jaws need repositioning.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:

• difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
• speech problems
• chronic jaw or TMJ pain
• open bite
• protruding jaw
• breathing problems

Any of these can exist at birth. They also can be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or trauma to the face.

Your evaluation
The initial consultation includes x-rays and a complete examination, which provide information for your treatment options. If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, OMA will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during treatment.

Video imaging
OMA uses three-dimensional computer models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you'll look after surgery.

Online Video

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