Your jaw performs some important tasks. It is essential for chewing, as well as speaking and other simple tasks that involve your mouth. It is made up of bone, cartilage, nerves, and muscles, all of which are essential for its ability to do these tasks. When something goes wrong with one of the components of your jaw, it can seriously affect your quality of life. Rekos & Border Oral Surgery are experienced in addressing jaw issues. One way we do this is through corrective jaw surgery. However, what makes you a good candidate for this procedure?Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a broad category and encompasses a wide range of both minor and major facial and dental issues. This particular type of surgery can target the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, depending upon your specific needs.
What Can Corrective Jaw Surgery Fix?
Corrective jaw surgery is used to correct some different oral health issues including:
| • | Problems with chewing. |
| • | Bruxism (the clenching and grinding of your teeth). |
| • | Speech issues. |
| • | Sleep apnea. |
| • | Problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMD). |
| • | Misalignment of the jaw, which can lead to issues with facial alignment and your appearance, or prominence of the jaw. |
Who Is An Ideal Candidate?
An ideal candidate for corrective jaw surgery is one who is suffering from one or more of the previously mentioned issues, and either has not, or cannot, benefit from any of the non-surgical options available. It is important that you be in good overall health before a surgical procedure. Poor health can impact your ability to heal, and increase your risk of experiencing complications. You should be a non-smoker, or be willing to quit. If you cannot quit for good, you must be able to quit at least for a period before your surgical procedure as well as during your healing period. Smoking while healing from corrective jaw surgery can lead to serious consequences, such as dry socket and infections. You must be able and willing to follow post-surgical instructions, which will help to reduce your risk of experiencing complications.
You should also have realistic expectations about what to expect from corrective jaw surgery. While surgery can go a long way to improving your quality of life, and your appearance, the severity of your situation may limit exactly what can be done.
Is corrective jaw surgery right for you?
Corrective jaw surgery is often a great solution for those who are suffering from sleep issues or jaw and joint issues. However, it should not be used until other options have been exhausted first. It is possible that you will respond well to a less invasive treatment before resorting to surgery. For example, some jaw problems can be taken care of with orthodontic treatment, eliminating your need for a surgical procedure. The recovery from jaw surgery can also take a toll on certain individuals.
If you are facing issues with your jaw, Rekos & Border Oral Surgery can help. Call us today at (614) 764-9455 to schedule your consultation and find out if corrective jaw surgery is right for you.
