What is Orthognathic Surgery?:
Orthognathic surgery is the surgical movement of the jaws. Referred to as surgical orthodontics when the oral and maxillofacial surgeon uses the surgical procedure to reposition the upper and lower jaws. This can be compared to an orthodontist correctly repositioning the teeth. The overall goal for orthognathic surgery is to correct and align minor and major facial and jaw irregularities. This not only improves facial appearance but also ensures that the teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Drs. Wittenberg and McBride firmly believe that Orthognathic surgery is best performed using the team approach in which the patient, the orthodontist, and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon have integral roles.

Who needs Orthognathic Surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing, function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment and position. Orthodontics alone can correct many bite problems if only the teeth are involved, orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning.

Difficulty in the following areas also need repositioning:

• Chewing
  
• Biting or swallowing
  
• Speech problems
  
• Open bite
  
• Protruding jaw
  
• Unbalanced facial appearance
  
• Facial injury
  
• Birth defects
  
• Receding chin
  
• Inability to make lips meet without effort

These conditions may be the result of a variety of factors. They may exist at birth or may be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or trauma to the face.

Examining your need for Orthognathic Surgery
Take our test, are you a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery? Click here

In determining your need for orthognathic surgery, Dr. Wittenberg and your orthodontist will work closely together to formulate the proper treatment plan. The orthodontist is responsible for aligning the teeth so they will fit together properly after the jaws have been repositioned. Dr. Wittenberg is responsible for surgically repositioning the jaws so the teeth and jaws are in the new proper alignment. There are different types of surgeries available, click here to read more on this.

Prior to any treatment, an initial consultation will be held in order to get acquainted and answer any questions that you might have. It is very important to understand that your treatment, including presurgical orthodontics, orthognathic surgery, post-surgery healing, as well as post-surgical orthodontics may take from several months to two years or more to complete. Click here for more information regarding preparing for your surgery.

In order to appreciate the full benefits of combined orthodontic and orthognathic treatment, a long-term commitment is recommended and required. Prior to the initiation of treatment, a thorough examination with facial measurements, photographs, x-rays, and dental impressions will be made. After reviewing the results of your examination, consultations, and other relevant diagnostic procedures, you and the surgical team will decide upon the course of treatment which is personalized to meet your needs. Based on the extent of your surgical needs, orthodontic treatment may have to be augmented with orthognathic surgery. Click here for more information.

Surgical procedures can range from minor movement of one jaw to repositioning of both the upper and lower jaws. Click here for more information on the types of surgeries available. During these consultations you are encouraged to ask any questions that you might perceive as relevant to your treatment.

Orthognathic Surgery | Are you a candidate? | Facial Skeleton
Team Approach | Preparation Before the Surgery | Different Surgeries | After the Surgery

For more information schedule your free consultation with Dr. Wittenberg to discuss this procedure in full. Our experienced and professional office staff members are here to help you with all your questions. Call our offices at (831) 636-9808.