Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure aimed at correcting irregularities of the jaw bones and realigning the jaws and teeth to improve function and appearance قیمت جراحی فک. This surgery can have profound benefits not only for aesthetic reasons but also for improving breathing, chewing, speaking, and overall oral health.
What Is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both, depending on the patient’s condition. It is often performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who work closely with orthodontists to ensure proper alignment before and after the surgery.
Why Do People Need Jaw Surgery?
Several conditions may warrant jaw surgery:
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Malocclusion (bad bite): When the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, it can cause difficulty in chewing, speech problems, and excessive wear on teeth.
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Jaw misalignment: Conditions like an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite may cause discomfort, facial asymmetry, or functional issues.
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Sleep apnea: Severe obstructive sleep apnea can sometimes be treated with jaw surgery to enlarge the airway.
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Injury or trauma: Accidents causing jaw fractures or deformities may require surgical correction.
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Congenital defects: Some people are born with jaw deformities or abnormalities that affect their quality of life.
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TMJ disorders: Temporomandibular joint problems sometimes need surgical intervention if conservative treatments fail.
The Process: What to Expect
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Consultation and Evaluation: The journey starts with a thorough examination, including X-rays, CT scans, and dental impressions to assess jaw structure and plan treatment.
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Orthodontic Preparation: Before surgery, patients often undergo orthodontic treatment (braces) for several months to align teeth in preparation for jaw repositioning.
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Surgery: The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia. Depending on the complexity, the surgeon may work on one or both jaws, making precise cuts to move the bones into their new positions. Plates, screws, or wires may be used to stabilize the jaw during healing.
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Recovery: Initial recovery takes about 6 weeks, but complete healing can take several months. Patients might experience swelling, numbness, and limited jaw movement initially. A liquid or soft diet is usually recommended during recovery.
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Post-Surgical Orthodontics: After surgery, braces may remain in place for some months to finalize teeth alignment.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
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Improved bite and chewing efficiency
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Enhanced facial symmetry and appearance
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Better speech and breathing
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Relief from chronic jaw or TMJ pain
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Correction of sleep apnea symptoms
Risks and Considerations
Like all surgeries, jaw surgery carries some risks:
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Infection or bleeding
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Nerve injury causing numbness or altered sensation
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Relapse or changes in jaw position over time
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Scarring and swelling
It’s important to have a detailed discussion with your surgeon and orthodontist to understand the risks and benefits based on your specific case.
Conclusion
Jaw surgery is a transformative procedure that addresses functional and aesthetic concerns related to jaw misalignment. When done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment and under expert care, it can significantly improve quality of life by restoring balance, function, and confidence. If you experience jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or notice facial asymmetry, consulting a specialist could be the first step toward effective treatment.