Orthognathic Surgery
At Wollenschlaeger Orthodontics, we offer the full range of orthodontics for persons living in Leesburg, FL and beyond, including orthognathic surgery. While traditional orthodontic treatments such as braces and space aligners offer an effective solution for most alignment problems, there are certain ones that require a more advanced approach. Orthognathic surgery is a special surgical procedure that not only treats alignment problems, but also addresses jaw and facial abnormalities.
When do Patients Need Orthognathic Surgery?
When a patient visits an orthodontist in Leesburg, FL, the problem is alignment issues. A person may have gaps in the teeth, an overbite, an underbite or something else related to the way the teeth are positioned. But in some cases, much more than standard orthodontics are needed to fully correct a problem. Braces and aligners can only go so far in terms of alignment correction.
Orthognathic surgery may be necessary if a person’s teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed, even after traditional orthodontic treatment has been completed. This is indicative of a jaw problem, where the upper and lower jaw are not properly positioned. In general terms, the lateral position of one or both jaws may need to be surgically adjusted, especially in situations where the jaws are incorrectly skewed to one side or the other.
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a type of jaw surgery done to correct misaligned jaws and teeth. The word “orthognathic” means “straight jaws.” This type of surgery is often considered when orthodontic treatment alone can’t fix the issues. The surgery involves reshaping the jawbones to improve their alignment and function. This can help with problems like severe overbite or underbite, difficulty in chewing, and even issues like sleep apnea. Before the surgery, extensive planning is done using X-rays and 3D models. Often, complementary orthodontic treatment is used before and/or after the surgery to ensure that the teeth fit together well. The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia, and recovery can take several weeks. The overall goal is to improve jaw function and facial appearance.
Wollenschlaeger Orthodontics offers orthognathic surgery in Leesburg, FL. If you need this type of surgery before or after your regular orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist or dentist will advise you. Contact us for more details.
