At True Care Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, we understand how critical jaw alignment is for your overall health, and how it can affect your ability to chew, speak, and even your facial appearance. If you’re dealing with jaw misalignment or related issues, it’s important to seek professional care. In some cases, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) may be the solution you need. If you’re in the Turnersville area and looking for an oral surgeon who can help, read on to learn how to get the most out of your jaw surgery.

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, commonly referred to as jaw surgery, is a procedure designed to correct jawbone irregularities and realign the jaws and teeth. This surgery can treat a variety of issues related to chewing, speaking, and eating, as well as improve the overall appearance of the face. It’s often used when orthodontic treatment alone isn’t sufficient to address advanced jaw problems.

Conditions That May Require Jaw Surgery:

Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or biting food
Jaw trauma or injury
Malocclusions (bite problems), such as underbites or severe overbites
Facial imbalances from the front or sides
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders
Sleep apnea
Receding chin or protruding jaw
Congenital defects, including cleft palate
Mouth breathing

What Happens During Jaw Surgery?

Before undergoing orthognathic surgery, braces are typically used to move your teeth into a better position. Once the braces phase is complete, our oral surgeon in Turnersville will reposition your jawbones to correct alignment. Depending on your needs, bone may be added, removed, or reshaped. To secure the jaw in place after the procedure, surgical plates, screws, wires, or rubber bands may be used.

In most cases, the incisions are made inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring, although some external incisions may be required for more complex cases.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery time for jaw surgery varies based on the complexity of your procedure. However, most patients can return to normal activities within 1 to 3 weeks after surgery. You will be closely monitored throughout the recovery process to ensure your jaw heals properly. Your oral surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions to help manage swelling, pain, and other potential issues during healing.

Risks of Jaw Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved in orthognathic surgery. Some potential complications include:

Bleeding issues
Infection
Nerve injury
Jaw fractures
The possibility of jaw relapse (misalignment returning)
The need for root canal therapy on selected teeth

Why Choose an Oral Surgeon for Jaw Surgery?

Jaw surgery is a complex procedure that requires the skills of a trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon. If you’re considering jaw surgery, it’s crucial to choose an experienced professional who understands the intricacies of the procedure. At True Care Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, we are here to provide personalized care tailored to your needs.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you think orthognathic surgery might be the right option for you, True Care Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Turnersville is here to help. Schedule a consultation with our expert oral surgeon to discuss your treatment plan and take the first step toward improving your jaw alignment, function, and appearance.