Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and the patient seeks a correction of the bite and/or their facial appearance. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly. Corrective surgery can eliminate jaw and jaw muscle pain and prevent abnormal wear or loss of teeth. Experience and State-of-the-Art Techniques Dr. Weber has extensive experience in the correction of skeletal facial deformities and functional and cosmetic jaw and bite abnormalities. Traditionally, there would be a period of approximately six weeks of the jaws being wired together following surgical repositioning. Using state-of-the-art techniques, wiring the jaws together following surgery can be avoided. Dr. Weber has a great deal of experience in this area and regularly teaches these techniques to other specialists. Another of the more commonly encountered problems associated with corrective jaw surgery is nerve injury resulting in numbness in the lower lip and chin area. Dr. Weber has developed and published results of a technique for repositioning the lower jaw, which caries less risk for the nerve supplying sensation to the lower lip and chin. The techniques can be used in most cases and also allows immediate movement of the jaw after surgery. The advances in orthognathic surgery are fully utilized to allow stable correction of jaw and bite problems with minimal disability and an easier recovery process for the patient. Who needs Orthognathic Surgery? People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and, in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. While orthodontics alone can correct many bite problems if only the teeth are involved, orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning.
Before any treatment begins, consultations will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, always remember to feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. Dr. Weber uses modern computer techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and video stills, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you will look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and to see the benefits of orthognathic surgery. As part of the comprehensive treatment of skeletal facial and/or jaw/bite deformity, Dr. Weber will work and communicate closely with your Orthodontist. Treatment planning, pre-surgical preparation, and post-surgical finishing is closely coordinated between surgeon and orthodontist. Our office will coordinate all aspects of the pre-determination and insurance reimbursement process as well. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is the premier specialty in the treatment of facial trauma. Dr. Weber has extensive experience in the treatment of facial injuries, especially facial bone fractures. Dr. Weber lectures nationally and internationally and has published articles and a text volume on the subject of jaw fractures. State-of-the-art techniques are utilized to help restore facial structures to their pre-injury state. As with Orthognathic Surgery, the jaws typically are not wired closed after jaw or facial bone fracture repair. Injuries which may require the expertise of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, are:
Corrective surgery is done in the hospital or our ambulatory surgical center, depending upon the situation. Dental Website Design by PBHS Inc. |
