Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized surgical procedure that corrects irregularities in the jaw bones. It’s designed to improve both function and appearance when orthodontic treatments like braces alone can’t fully address issues such as misaligned jaws or bite problems هزینه جراحی فک.
Why Consider Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery may be necessary if you have:
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Bite misalignment: Conditions like overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite can make chewing difficult and lead to uneven tooth wear.
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Facial imbalance: Misaligned jaws can affect your facial symmetry, impacting your appearance and self-confidence.
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Speech or breathing difficulties: Certain jaw issues can cause speech impediments or contribute to sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops temporarily during sleep.
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Chronic pain: Jaw misalignment can cause jaw pain, headaches, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
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Injury or birth defects: Trauma or congenital conditions that affect the jaw’s structure might require surgical correction.
Types of Jaw Surgery
There are different surgical techniques depending on which part of the jaw is affected:
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Upper jaw surgery (maxillary osteotomy): Repositions the upper jaw.
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Lower jaw surgery (mandibular osteotomy): Adjusts the lower jaw.
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Chin surgery (genioplasty): Modifies the chin to enhance balance.
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Combined procedures: Sometimes both the upper and lower jaws need adjustment.
What to Expect During the Process
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Pre-surgery preparation: Usually, braces or other orthodontic devices are used for months to align teeth in preparation for surgery.
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Surgery: Under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes precise cuts to move and reposition the jaws.
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Stabilization: Metal plates, screws, or wires keep the jaws in their new positions during healing.
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Recovery and follow-up: Post-surgery orthodontics refine the bite, and recovery involves managing swelling and following dietary restrictions.
Recovery and Risks
Recovery typically lasts several weeks. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort initially, with gradual improvement over time. Maintaining a soft or liquid diet is often necessary during healing.
As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, nerve damage leading to numbness, bleeding, and complications with jaw movement. However, complications are rare, and most patients achieve excellent results with proper care.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
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Enhanced ability to chew, speak, and breathe.
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Improved facial aesthetics and balance.
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Reduced pain and discomfort associated with jaw issues.
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Long-lasting correction of bite and jaw alignment.
Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?
If you struggle with bite problems, chronic jaw pain, or facial imbalance, consulting with an orthodontist or oral surgeon can help determine if jaw surgery is a good option. They will evaluate your condition and guide you through the treatment plan best suited to your needs.