Some patients have such a severe problem and a large enough jaw discrepancy to warrant needing to have jaw surgery. We treat many of these patients every year. TO works directly with several oral surgeons and uses the latest techniques and the most detailed of analyses to make sure the teeth are lined up properly, the jaw bones are moved into the proper position at surgery, and the bite and smile are ideal when finished. Many patients aren’t fully aware that there is orthodontic tooth movement that has to occur prior to the jaw surgery as well as after the jaw surgery, to get the bite fully corrected. If you feel you may be in need of jaw surgery, please don’t hesitate to give us a call to set up your free consultation.
Additionally, Dr. Barefoot is renowned for his ability to treat some patients who have underbites or open bites utilizing a specialized alternative to jaw surgery–patients who have been told repeatedly that surgery is the only option. Does this describe you? If so, please ask for Dr. Barefoot when you schedule your new patient exam. He has patients fly in every month from all over to see him for this surgery alternative. Other orthodontists even refer him patients for this treatment! The only way you will know if it will work for you is to schedule a new patient exam.
How Do Jaw Surgery Treatments Work?
During your orthodontic treatment you wear braces (or Invisalign®) and will visit your orthodontist for scheduled adjustments. As your teeth move, you may think that your bite is getting worse rather than improving. However, after your jaws are placed into proper alignment during orthognathic surgery, the teeth will then fit into their proper positions.
Surgery is performed by a Maxillo-facial Oral Surgeon and can take from one to several hours, depending on the amount and type of surgery needed. In lower jaw surgery, the jawbone behind the teeth is separated, and the tooth-bearing portion is moved forward or backward, as needed. In upper jaw surgery, the jaw can be re-positioned forward or backward, or the jaw can be raised or lowered. Other facial bones that contribute to alignment may also be re-positioned or augmented. Don’t worry! You will not have visible scarring!
When you have completed surgery, you should be able to return to school or work within three weeks. After the necessary healing time (about 4-8 weeks), your orthodontist “fine-tunes” your bite.
After your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to maintain your beautiful new smile and facial appearance.
