Orthognathic, or corrective jaw surgery is performed to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and cleft palate. These conditions can be congenital or injury related.

Often, surgery is done to correct orthodontic problems that cannot be easily treated with braces alone.  Orthognathic surgery is needed when the jaws do not meet properly and teeth do not seem to fit with the jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Problems Resulting from Improper Alignment of the Jaws
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 can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment.

 

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:

  • Chewing, biting or swallowing
  • Speech problems
  • Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
  • Open bite
  • Protruding jaw
  • Breathing problems

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

Technology and Corrective Jaw Surgery
Dr. Schwartz and Dr. Hyatt use advanced computer techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial radiographs and video stills, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you could look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed, and to see the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are ready to address issues related to a misaligned jaw, contact any of our offices in the Baltimore area for a corrective jaw surgery consultation.