Jaw surgery has more benefits than many people realize. It can improve both the cosmetic appearance of a person and their overall health. While it is recommended only to undergo this type of surgery for functional health purposes, it can dramatically improve a person’s appearance as well.
Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, for health reasons is sometimes required when a person’s jaws do not close together correctly, or the teeth within the jaws do not have enough space or too much space to grow. The purpose of the surgery is to realign the jaw. The operation will improve the ability of the teeth to meet and function and also reduce the likelihood of tooth loss and disease in the future. Jaws that do not fit properly cause a long list of problems including:
Orthognathic surgery will also significantly improve the appearance of the patient. Many people with jaw problems are also dissatisfied with their appearance. Receding or “weak” chins, protruding chins and open bites do not affect the function of the mouth alone, but they can also dampen a person’s confidence and self-esteem. So while orthognathic surgery should be primarily considered to improve the function and health of the mouth, it can also serve as a confidence booster and help patients feel better about themselves.
#1 TMJ
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, also known as TMJ, is a condition in which a person experiences chronic jaw pain and headaches. It may contribute to the excessive wear of the teeth, multiple dental procedures from tooth wear and compromised movement of the jaw joints. Many people with TMJ syndrome experience difficulty chewing, locking of the jaw and trouble sleeping. Orthognathic surgery will correct these issues and rid the patient of temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
#2 Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes problems breathing. Breathing may start and stop throughout the night leading to other health conditions. Severe snoring is often a sign of sleep apnea. Jaw misalignment can be a cause of sleep apnea, which orthognathic surgery can correct.
#3 Birth defects
Birth defects of the jaw are often a cause of an imbalanced facial appearance and many other problems that were previously listed. Orthognathic surgery and different types of facial surgery combined with it as needed can correct birth defects, providing a person with a more attractive appearance and better overall health.
If your jaw causes problems with your health or self-esteem, it may be time to consider surgery. Surgical intervention for jaw abnormalities always improves a patient’s quality of life. Getting rid of the side effects of a misaligned jaw will build your confidence, reduce dental bills and provide you with freedom from pain. Schedule an appointment with our office today to learn more about jaw surgery and its applications.
Request an appointment in our Lee's Summit office here: https://spectrumsurgical.net.
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