Learn about
Corrective Jaw Surgery and Surgically Assisted Orthodontics
Finding out that you, or your child, require any kind of surgery can be scary. surgery is no different. it doesn't have to be scary, and surgery can help with many problems, some of which you might not have even realized were connected to your mouth and jaw.
Advanced dentistry in a state-of-the-art surgical center.
Why Choose Legacy surgery
Dr. Kesecker is a Recognized Leader in Dental Implants, the All-on-4 Procedure, and Sedation Dentistry.
Expertise and Training: As a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Kesecker maintains certifications in Advanced Trauma Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support and can administer all types of anesthesia.
Experience: Dr. Kesecker has placed thousands of implants and has been delivering exquisite results for many years. Dr. Kesecker has completed advanced surgical training in the latest dental implant techniques.
State-of-the-Art Surgical Center: Our practice is designed to deliver exceptional patient care using the most advanced technology available.
We have 21st century technology now that can give you back your smile and ability to eat the foods you love – just like your natural teeth.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
People who can benefit from orthognathic 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 can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning in necessary.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Dr. Kesecker will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.
What does an orthodontic surgeon do?
An
orthodontic surgeon typically performs jaw surgery to correct jaw misalignments, as well as take any teeth that haven't erupted and bring them into their proper position.
- Jaw Surgery: Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is typically done to correct any irregularities in your jawbone. This can include an overbite or an underbite, as well as any asymmetry. Jaw surgery is usually done in conjunction with braces or aligners to help straighten your teeth.
- Benefits of jaw surgery and braces: There are many benefits to having corrective jaw surgery, along with braces, in addition to improving the appearance of your smile.
- Correct bite problems
- Makes biting and chewing easier
- Correct speech problems
- Helps with breathing problems
- Helps with sleep apnea
Why would somebody undergo orthognathic surgery?
There are several reasons somebody would have orthognathic surgery.
- Improved appearance: Orthodontic surgery can correct conditions with your jaw that affect the symmetry of your face, as well as repair facial injuries or birth defects. It can also help make it easier to bring your lips together and improve the appearance of your smile.
- Improved function of teeth: Orthodontic surgery can adjust your bite, which can prevent further wear and tear on your teeth, and help make biting, chewing, and swallowing easier.
- Health benefits: There are several health benefits from orthodontic surgery, including addressing breathing issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea or chronic mouth breathing. It can also help with pain related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Additionally, orthognathic surgery can improve speech difficulties.
Presurgical Orthodontics
Prior to your surgery, you will generally have braces placed to align your teeth in preparation for your surgery. These are not done at Legacy Surgery and are provided through a regular orthodontist's office.
What To Expect from Orthognathic Surgery
- Before: Preparation for your procedure, in addition to presurgical braces or aligners, can include taking x-rays, molds, and measurements of your mouth.
- During: Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and depending on the specific procedure being done, can take between two to five hours. The majority of the incisions will be made inside your mouth, though sometimes small incisions are needed on the outside, but scarring on your face or chin is not likely.
- After: Jaw surgery typically requires at least one night in the hospital, and the average hospital stay is one to four days long. Dr. Kesecker will provide you with detailed instructions regarding eating and oral hygiene. You will most likely experience stiffness, swelling, and discomfort in your face and jaw, which is normal and should resolve over time. After several weeks, usually between six and twelve weeks, you will return to your orthodontist, who will continue to align your teeth using braces.
Orthognathic Surgery Cost
Often, if jaw surgery is being done to correct a medical problem, your insurance may cover some to all of the cost. Prior to surgery, it is important to check with your insurance provider to find out the specifics of what they cover, as well as any deductibles or copays.
Dr. Kesecker at Legacy Surgery
Dr. Kesecker and his team work to ensure a comfortable environment and provide the best care possible in order to remove as much of the fear surrounding surgery as possible. Contact us today if you believe you could benefit from orthognathic surgery.
