Will I Need Braces Before or After Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a procedure carried out on the jaw to address various bite and facial irregularities. For many people with severe bite problems, which could be the result of genetics, trauma, or developmental issues, orthognathic surgery is a saving grace and allows them to live without discomfort and show off a beautiful smile.
Before entering into the journey of jaw surgery, it’s important to understand exactly what’s involved and the timeline you will be facing. So read on for a full breakdown of exactly what’s involved in this life-changing treatment.
Why is Jaw Surgery Performed?
Jaw surgery is performed to correct the occlusion (bite) and to change the facial profile. In some cases, surgery can be planned to improve the relationship between the jaws and improve the bite, with minimal change to facial appearance whilst in other cases, a noticeable change may occur. If your jaw is set back for example surgery can bring the jaw forwards, and vice versa.
The types of malocclusions orthognathic surgery can help with include:
- Underbite (Class III Malocclusion) which occurs when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw.
- Overbite (Class II Malocclusion) is characterised by the upper jaw significantly overlapping the lower jaw.
- Crossbite, which involves the misalignment of the upper and lower jaws, causing some upper teeth to sit inside the lower teeth.
- Open Bite, which occurs when there is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth even when the mouth is closed.
- Rebalancing facial asymmetry which refers to the uneven development of the facial bones, resulting in a lopsided appearance.
- Improve the ability of lips to close fully and comfortably.
- Relieve symptoms of disruptive sleep apnea.
What’s Involved in the Jaw Surgery Process?
Orthognathic surgery involves moving the jaw bones into their desired positions under general anaesthetic, secured by tiny screws and plates that stay in place under the gum. It is a specialised procedure carried out inside the mouth by oral and maxillofacial surgeons and in some instances, a tiny cut may be made at the angle of the jaw, however, it is very unlikely that any scars will be left after a successful procedure. In most cases, jaws will not need to be wired together, however, you will need to wear orthodontic elastics whilst your bite settles.
Orthodontic treatment is carried out over a period of 2 ½ to 3 years and includes the wearing of braces to reposition the teeth in order for you to be ready for surgery. After surgery, orthodontic treatment is usually needed for around 6 to 9 months and after this, a removable form of appliance will be required.
Will I Need to Wear Braces Before Jaw Surgery?
In short, yes, you will need to wear fixed braces to begin your jaw surgery which works to reposition your teeth in order for the movement of your jaw during surgery to fit well. Approximately two-thirds of the way through your 2 ½ to 3 year wear of braces is when you will be ready for jaw surgery, as this is when enough movement of the teeth will have been made to enable your jaws to be moved in harmony with each other.
If Surgery is Successful, Will I Need to Wear Braces Afterward?
Once your surgery is completed, you will continue with braces treatment for around 6 to 9 months. This is so that your teeth and bite can move into proper alignment now that your jaw has been moved to a new position and as mentioned previously, you will wear elastics directly after whilst your bite settles.
Once your fixed braces are removed and your orthodontist is happy with the progress, you will be advised to wear a removable retainer to help your teeth maintain their new position. In slightly more severe cases, some patients may need to wear a fixed retainer too but after a year of retainer wear, you will be advised to wear the retainers a few nights a week indefinitely.
Speak to a Trusted Clinic About Jaw Surgery in Manchester.
If you are seeking orthognathic surgery in Manchester, our team of fully trained and experienced clinicians here at Northenden House Orthodontics regularly undertake this type of work, meaning all our patients are in the best hands. We ensure a smooth end-to-end process with complex, interdisciplinary care, and regular check-up appointments to ensure that your recovery is going well and remaining on track.
You can rest assured that in seeking jaw surgery in Manchester, we offer the specialist treatment and care needed to perform a successful orthognathic operation. Contact Northenden House Orthodontics today and begin your journey to a better and happier smile.
- Mohammad Malik
