Far from being merely a cosmetic concern, jaw misalignment can affect everything from chewing and speaking to breathing and overall facial appearance. Corrective jaw surgery or orthognathic surgery, offered by Dr Mark Austin oral and maxillofacial surgeons, is designed to rectify these issues.

This surgical procedure not only impacts a patient’s external appearance but also has profound effects on their dental health and overall well-being. For that, Dr Mark Austin will discuss how corrective jaw surgery can enhance dental health and improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing jaw-related issues.

Corrective Jaw Surgery: An Overview

Corrective jaw surgery encompasses various procedures designed to straighten or realign the jaws, correcting irregularities and enhancing the interplay between teeth, jaws, and facial muscles. It can be applied to the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both.

While orthodontics can solve tooth misalignment, severe jaw misalignment requires surgical intervention. The goal is to correct a misaligned bite and improve facial symmetry and harmony, leading to improved function and appearance.

Enhancing Dental Health With Corrective Jaw Surgery

Rectification of Bite Problems – One of the primary reasons for undergoing corrective jaw surgery is the correction of a misaligned bite or malocclusion. When the upper and lower teeth don’t meet correctly, patients can face issues like premature wear and tear, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. By realigning the jaws, corrective jaw surgery can ensure proper teeth alignment, reducing these risks and improving oral health.

Improved Chewing and Nutrition – Misaligned jaws can interfere with chewing, making it difficult for individuals to eat certain types of food. This issue can potentially limit nutritional intake. Corrective jaw surgery can enhance the ability of patients to bite and chew, leading to improved nutrition and overall health.

Reduction in TMJ Symptoms – Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can result from jaw misalignment, leading to pain, crackling noises, and limited jaw movement. Patients with severe TMJ disorders may benefit from corrective jaw surgery. The surgery can rectify the issue at its foundation by improving jaw alignment and thereby reducing TMJ symptoms.

Prevention of Oral Health Issues – A misaligned jaw can lead to complications such as difficulties in cleaning certain teeth areas, leading to the buildup of plaque and tartar. Over time, this complement can result in cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. By improving jaw alignment, corrective jaw surgery simplifies oral hygiene procedures, aiding in the prevention of these dental issues.

The Bigger Picture: Quality of Life Improvement

Corrective jaw surgery’s impact extends beyond dental health. It significantly contributes to improved facial appearance and symmetry, enhancing breathing, speech, and even sleep quality by potentially alleviating conditions like sleep apnea. Moreover, many patients report a rise in self-confidence and self-esteem after their corrective jaw surgery.

Before undergoing corrective jaw surgery, Dr Mark Austin states that it’s crucial to have an in-depth discussion with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon to outline your expectations and understand the potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure. With the right surgeon and the right procedure, you are not just enhancing your dental health, but bringing a positive change to your overall quality of life.