[Dental Health] Learn about the jawbone straightening surgery process and precautions in this article!
Malocclusion and facial asymmetry are related not only to the teeth but also to the jawbone. If you have protruding teeth, facial asymmetry, severe open bite, or knock-knees, braces alone may not be effective; jawbone correction surgery may be necessary to address the problem.
What is jawbone correction? What are its benefits?
Jawbone correction is a surgical procedure that involves cutting the upper and lower jawbones and readjusting the position of the teeth and jaws. It mainly corrects malocclusion and adjusts facial shape, improving issues such as protruding teeth, jawbone hypoplasia, severe open bite, and inverted teeth.
How can I tell if I need jawbone correction?
If you have protruding teeth, inverted teeth, facial asymmetry, malocclusion, or other jaw problems, you can visit a dentist for an examination. The dentist will conduct a clinical examination or use computer software to diagnose whether the patient needs jawbone correction.
What are the different types of jawbone correction surgery?
Common surgical procedures for jawbone correction include single jaw surgery, double jaw surgery, and chin augmentation surgery.
(1) Single jaw surgery
The surgery is divided into maxillary and mandibular procedures. Maxillary surgery requires a horizontal incision at the alveolar protrusion, while mandibular surgery involves a sagittal incision at the vertical branch of the mandible. The two can be repositioned and then fixed with titanium screws.
(2) Bimaxillary surgery
Simultaneous osteotomy of the upper and lower jaws allows for adjustments to both, achieving the most harmonious facial contours and bite position.
(3) Chin augmentation surgery
The main procedure involves moving the jawbone, cutting the lower front of the jawbone, and adjusting its position by pushing forward, moving backward, lengthening or shortening the jaw. After adjustment, the position is fixed with bone screws.
What is the procedure for jawbone correction surgery?
Traditional jawbone straightening surgery requires patients to undergo six months to a year and a half of orthodontic treatment before the actual surgery to ensure proper tooth alignment. After the surgery, patients also need another six months of orthodontic treatment to stabilize the teeth's position. Currently, patients can undergo jawbone straightening surgery first, followed by approximately one and a half years of orthodontic treatment, thus shortening the overall treatment time.
Before the surgery, the dentist first obtains photos of the patient's face (front, side, and mandibular occlusion), skull and full-mouth X-rays, 3D computed tomography scans, and jawbone reconstruction models. Then, software analysis is used to simulate the postoperative appearance, and the surgical plan and procedure are discussed with the patient.
Because jawbone correction surgery requires general anesthesia, doctors will first assess the patient's physical condition and conduct blood tests to ensure that the patient is suitable for surgery and general anesthesia.
The surgery typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on the extent and degree of correction. Post-surgery, patients need to remain in the hospital for 1 to 2 days for observation; discharge is possible if the condition is satisfactory. After discharge, patients need to return for regular checkups to monitor wound healing and reduce swelling.
What precautions should be taken after surgery?
In the initial postoperative period after jaw surgery, patients need to consume nutrient solutions, liquids, and warm foods. The wound will heal in about two weeks, after which soft foods can be introduced. Complete healing of the jawbone takes six months to a year. If facial swelling occurs, ice packs can be applied to reduce it. Patients should take anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications as prescribed by their doctor to promote wound healing. Patients should also rest more, avoid strenuous exercise and smoking, to prevent affecting wound healing and increasing the risk of inflammation.
Author: Dr. Chen Haoxian
