Orthognathic Surgery
Battleground, WAOrthognathic surgery at Excel Dental is the clinical term for corrective jaw surgery. It is used to treat any misalignment of the jaw that affects how the teeth fit together, how the face appears, and how comfortably a patient can chew, speak, and breathe. When the upper and lower jaw are not properly aligned, everyday functions such as eating and talking can become difficult or uncomfortable, and long-term oral health concerns may develop. 
Will Orthognathic Surgery Correct My Issues?Orthognathic surgery is a dental service designed to correct structural jaw problems that cannot be resolved with braces or other non-surgical treatments alone. During an evaluation, Dr. Burke Jardine assesses jaw movement, facial symmetry, bite alignment, and how the teeth function together. These factors help determine whether surgery may be beneficial. Common issues addressed with orthognathic surgery include significant overbites and underbites. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, while an underbite occurs when the lower teeth project beyond the upper teeth. When these conditions are mild, orthodontic treatment may help. However, in more pronounced cases, the jaw itself must be repositioned to achieve proper alignment. Beyond bite concerns, jaw misalignment can contribute to chronic headaches, jaw and neck muscle discomfort, uneven tooth wear, difficulty chewing, and speech challenges. When left untreated, these symptoms may worsen over time. Orthognathic surgery addresses the underlying cause of these issues by correcting the position of the jaw, rather than simply managing the symptoms. Whether this procedure is right for you can only be determined through a comprehensive consultation. Once the evaluation is complete, our team will explain the findings and discuss whether orthognathic surgery or another treatment approach is recommended. Orthognathic Surgery DescriptionOrthognathic surgery focuses on repositioning the jawbones to improve alignment, balance, and function. When the jaw is out of alignment, the teeth cannot meet properly, which can cause strain on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. This strain may lead to discomfort during speaking, chewing, or even at rest. The jaw plays a critical role in maintaining proper tooth alignment and overall oral function. When it is not positioned correctly, normal activities can become painful or inefficient. Orthognathic surgery corrects these structural issues by carefully adjusting the jawbones into a more functional position. While this procedure is most commonly associated with functional correction, it can also improve facial balance. Jaw misalignment can affect facial proportions, sometimes making the profile or smile appear uneven. By restoring proper alignment, orthognathic surgery can enhance both function and appearance, helping patients feel more comfortable and confident. What Will Orthognathic Surgery Help?Orthognathic surgery can address a wide range of functional and structural concerns. One of the most common reasons patients seek this procedure is to correct severe bite issues that interfere with daily life. Overbites and underbites are frequently treated, particularly when orthodontic care alone is not enough to achieve proper alignment. In addition to bite correction, orthognathic surgery may help alleviate:
When Is Orthognathic Surgery Right?Determining whether orthognathic surgery is appropriate begins with a detailed evaluation. Our professional staff examines the patient's bite, jaw movement, facial structure, and overall oral health. In some cases, jaw misalignment is visible during a routine exam. In others, advanced imaging and measurements are needed to fully understand the issue. Orthognathic surgery may be recommended when jaw discrepancies are severe, when functional problems are present, or when orthodontic treatment alone cannot achieve a stable result. Each recommendation is made based on careful assessment and the patient's individual needs. Before any decision is made, our team will review all findings with the patient and discuss available options. If surgery is recommended, we will explain what to expect before, during, and after treatment so patients and families feel informed and prepared. Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?Most people do not require orthognathic surgery, as their jaw and teeth align naturally. However, some individuals experience uneven jaw growth. In these cases, one jaw may grow faster or larger than the other, resulting in a misaligned bite and functional concerns. Orthognathic surgery is often considered once jaw growth is complete. For many patients, this occurs during the teenage years. Jaw growth typically finishes between ages 17 and 21 for males and slightly earlier for females. Performing surgery after growth is complete helps ensure stable, long-lasting results. Candidates for orthognathic surgery may experience difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing comfortably. Facial balance may also be affected. When these concerns cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatment alone, surgery may be the most effective solution. Braces Are Typically Used Before SurgeryOrthodontic treatment is usually an important part of the orthognathic surgery process. Braces are often placed a year or more before surgery to begin aligning the teeth in preparation for jaw repositioning. This step ensures that once the jaw is corrected, the teeth will fit together properly. During this phase, our team may take periodic X-rays and digital scans to monitor jaw development and plan the surgical approach. In some cases, adjustments to tooth shape or restorations may be recommended to improve alignment and function. Advanced tools such as 3D imaging and computer modeling may also be used to enhance precision and planning. What Happens During Orthognathic Surgery?Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically requires a short hospital stay. The procedure is usually completed through incisions inside the mouth, which helps minimize visible scarring. During surgery, the jawbones are carefully repositioned into proper alignment. Small plates and fixation components are used to stabilize the bones as they heal. In certain situations, bone reshaping or grafting may be necessary to achieve the desired result. Surgery may involve the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, depending on the patient's needs. RecoveryFollowing surgery, patients are monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure proper healing. Once discharged, recovery continues at home. Initial swelling and discomfort are expected, and detailed aftercare instructions will be provided. Full healing of the jaw typically takes several weeks. During this time, patients must attend follow-up visits so progress can be monitored. Adhering to all care guidelines helps support a smooth recovery and successful outcome. How Can Our Team Decide if Orthognathic Surgery Is Right?Our team uses a combination of clinical examinations, imaging, and patient feedback to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Some jaw concerns are immediately noticeable, while others become apparent only after thorough evaluation. By carefully reviewing symptoms, functional concerns, and exam findings, we can recommend a course of treatment that prioritizes comfort, function, and long-term oral health. If you believe orthognathic surgery may be needed, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Excel Dental. You may call (360) 369-3930 to arrange an appointment or discuss your concerns with our team. |
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