confident man smiling with a cup of coffee happy with his surgery choice

Lower Jaw Surgery: Transforming Your Smile at Airdrie Oral Surgery

profile of a woman smiling

When it comes to oral health, a lot more happens beneath the surface than just a bright smile. For many people, issues like misaligned jaws, difficulty chewing, or even obstructive sleep apnea can take a toll on both comfort and confidence.

Here at Airdrie Oral Surgery our dedicated team of oral and maxillofacial surgeons specializes in delivering life-changing results through lower jaw surgery.

What is Lower Jaw Surgery?

An patient in the operating room ready to begin surgery

Lower jaw surgery, or mandibular osteotomy, is a corrective procedure that helps reposition the lower jaw to ensure it fits perfectly with the upper jaw. This type of jaw surgery isn’t only about improving appearance—it also helps correct a wide range of functional issues.

In this procedure, precise cuts are made in the lower jaw to reposition it. This can involve moving the lower teeth and chin forward, backward, or rotating them to correct alignment issues.

At Airdrie Oral Surgery, we specialize in both upper jaw surgery and lower jaw surgery. Our goal is to provide patients with a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs, enhancing both form and function. Let’s take a closer look at how lower jaw surgery can make a difference in your life.

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery is a specialized procedure that corrects irregularities in the alignment of the upper and lower jaws. Performed by skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons, this surgery not only enhances facial appearance but also significantly improves jaw function.

Whether you’re dealing with obstructive sleep apnea, difficulty chewing, or chronic jaw joint pain, orthognathic surgery can offer a comprehensive solution.

Correcting Jaw Alignment for Better Function

A surgeon performing mandibular osteotomy in the operating room

Do your upper and lower teeth not align properly? This is more common than you might think. Misaligned jaws can cause jaw problems that lead to an open bite, where the upper teeth don’t meet the lower teeth when your mouth is closed. Such issues can make it challenging to chew properly, causing unnecessary strain on your back teeth and even leading to excessive wear over time.

Lower jaw surgery helps reposition your lower jaw to align correctly with your upper jaw. This alignment ensures that your teeth fit together perfectly, improving your bite and making chewing more efficient.

The procedure often involves precise cuts to the facial bones to adjust the jaw’s position. In some cases, bimaxillary orthognathic surgery (correcting both the upper and lower jaws) may be necessary to achieve the desired result.

Practical Tip:

After lower jaw surgery, maintaining good oral hygiene and following up with your oral surgeon for regular check-ups are key to long-term success. Studies show that improving jaw alignment can prevent excessive wear on teeth and reduce the risk of future dental problems.

Addressing Obstructive Sleep Apnea

A man sleeping with his mouth open

Did you know that lower jaw surgery can also be a highly effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea? This common condition occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, often due to the lower jaw sitting too far back.

As a result, patients may experience disrupted sleep, snoring, and even serious health risks like heart disease and high blood pressure.

Maxillomandibular advancement surgery involves moving the lower jaw forward to create more space in the airway, allowing for better breathing during sleep. This procedure has been proven to significantly reduce or even eliminate sleep apnea symptoms for many patients, improving both sleep quality and overall health.

Practical Tip:

If you suffer from sleep apnea and are looking for a long-term solution, consult with our team at Airdrie Oral Surgery. Many patients who undergo lower jaw surgery for sleep apnea report an 80-90% improvement in their symptoms, according to recent studies.

Enhancing Facial Appearance and Confidence

woman with an open bite hoping for lower jaw surgery

While lower jaw surgery is primarily focused on function, there’s no denying the aesthetic benefits that come with it. Misaligned jaws can cause facial asymmetry, making your face appear uneven or unbalanced. For many patients, this can be a source of insecurity or self-consciousness.

By repositioning the lower jaw, we can improve not only how your teeth sit, but also the patient’s appearance.

Chin surgery, often performed in conjunction with lower jaw surgery, can further enhance facial symmetry, creating a more harmonious profile. This is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced jaw abnormalities due to birth defects or facial injury.

Practical Tip:

If you’re concerned about scarring or the visual impact of surgery, rest assured that today’s techniques are more advanced than ever. Small incisions and small plates are used to minimize visible scarring, and most patients experience minimal disruption to their appearance during the recovery time.

Relieving Chronic Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders

female patient being shown a dental model and how her jaw position is affecting TMJ symptoms

Chronic jaw pain can severely impact your quality of life, especially if it’s linked to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. TMJ disorders can cause intense discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, making it difficult to perform simple tasks like chewing, speaking, or even yawning.

The pain is often accompanied by headaches, earaches, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, and stiffness that limits movement. Over time, these issues can worsen, leading to more frequent pain and inflammation.

The root cause of TMJ disorders often lies in jaw misalignment or excess stress on the joint, which can result from injury, arthritis, or structural issues with the jaw bones. When your jaws don’t align properly, it creates an imbalance that puts extra strain on the jaw joint. This is where lower jaw surgery comes in as a solution.

Practical Tip:

After your surgery, it’s essential to follow your oral surgeon’s recommendations for a smooth recovery. Incorporating gentle jaw exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve flexibility, reducing the likelihood of future issues.

Recovering After Lower Jaw Surgery

A patient 2 weeks after his bimaxillary osteotomy

The recovery period after lower jaw surgery can vary, but most patients can expect to take several weeks to fully heal. The use of small plates to secure the jaw in its new position typically speeds up the healing process, and the body begins to adjust to the new bite and teeth fit.

During the first few days after surgery, it’s common to experience swelling, mild discomfort, and limited jaw movement. However, these symptoms are temporary and usually subside within the first week. Most patients return to their normal routines, including eating solid foods, within 6-8 weeks.

Practical Tip:

Stick to a soft-food diet during the initial recovery phase and avoid chewing hard foods to prevent strain on your healing jaw. Titanium plates are often used to secure the jaw in its new position, ensuring stability during the healing process. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth and manage pain.

Combining Lower Jaw Surgery with Orthodontic Treatment

teen boy showing off his braces

It’s common for patients to need orthodontic treatment either before or after lower jaw surgery. This ensures that the teeth are in the correct alignment to fit together properly after the jaw is repositioned. Braces or aligners are often used in conjunction with surgery to fine-tune the final positioning of the upper and lower teeth.

Practical Tip:

Combining orthodontics with jaw surgery has a high success rate. In fact, studies show that over 90% of patients who undergo this combined treatment achieve long-term stability in their bite and jaw alignment.

Lower Jaw Surgery Can Improve Your Oral Health

woman brushing her teeth

One of the most important benefits of lower jaw surgery is the improvement it can bring to your overall oral health. When your teeth fit together properly, you’re less likely to experience problems like excessive wear, difficulty chewing, and gum recession. Additionally, correcting jaw alignment can reduce the risk of developing future issues with your teeth, gums, and jaw joint.

Lower jaw surgery also makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene. When your teeth are properly aligned, you can brush and floss more effectively, reducing the likelihood of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Practical Tip:

Make sure to maintain regular dental check-ups after surgery to monitor your bite and overall oral health. A commitment to proper oral hygiene can help prolong the benefits of surgery and keep your smile looking and feeling its best.

The Surgical Procedure

The process of orthognathic surgery involves several critical steps to ensure a successful outcome:

  1. Preparation: Before the surgery, a thorough examination is conducted, including X-rays, 3D imaging, and dental impressions. This helps the surgeon and orthodontist develop a detailed treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
  2. Anesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, Making sure that the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
  3. Incisions: Precise cuts are made in the jawbone to allow for repositioning. These incisions are typically made inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring.
  4. Repositioning: The jawbone is carefully repositioned and secured using titanium plates and screws. This ensures the new alignment is stable and promotes proper healing.
  5. Recovery: Post-surgery, patients must follow a strict diet, avoid strenuous activities, and attend regular follow-up appointments. This helps monitor progress and ensures a smooth recovery.

Choosing an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Selecting the right oral and maxillofacial surgeon is crucial for a successful orthognathic surgery. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Experience: Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in performing orthognathic surgery. Their expertise can significantly impact the outcome of your procedure.
  • Qualifications: Ensure the surgeon is board-certified and possesses the necessary qualifications to perform the surgery.
  • Communication: Choose a surgeon who takes the time to explain the procedure, risks, and potential complications clearly and concisely.
  • Facilities: Verify that the surgeon operates in a state-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest technology and equipment.
  • Reviews: Research the surgeon’s reputation by reading reviews from previous patients. This can provide valuable insights into their level of care and expertise.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, lower jaw surgery can have certain risks and potential complications. These may include:

  • Bleeding or Hematoma: Excessive bleeding or the formation of a hematoma can occur, requiring medical attention.
  • Infection: Post-surgical infections are a risk, necessitating proper wound care and possibly antibiotics.
  • Nerve Damage: There is a risk of temporary or permanent nerve damage, which can affect sensation in the jaw, lips, or tongue.
  • Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking: Some patients may experience temporary difficulties with swallowing or speaking as they adjust to the new jaw alignment.
  • Scarring: While incisions are typically made inside the mouth, there is still a risk of scarring.
  • Asymmetry: In rare cases, the final result may not be perfectly symmetrical, requiring further adjustments.

It’s essential to discuss these risks with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon to make an informed decision about undergoing surgery.

Conclusion: Transform Your Health and Confidence with Lower Jaw Surgery

confident man smiling with a cup of coffee happy with his surgery choice

Lower jaw surgery offers more than just an improvement in appearance—it can truly change your quality of life. At Airdrie Oral Surgery, our expert team is committed to providing personalized care that prioritizes both your health and your confidence.

With the guidance of our skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons, you can expect a tailored treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with jaw problems, difficulty chewing, or simply want a more harmonious facial profile, lower jaw surgery may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you. Contact us at Airdrie Oral Surgery today to learn more about how lower jaw surgery can transform your life.