Corrective Jaw Surgery Los Angeles, CA

When Jaw Surgery Is Required

Orthodontic appliances can fix many jaw problems, but sometimes surgery delivers better results. The dental team may determine that braces alone cannot shift the jaw into the correct position. Surgery allows the team to make significant changes to the shape and movement of the jaw.

Surgery also helps repair congenital disabilities. If a child was born with dental problems, surgery is a possible option to restore healthy mouth function. Surgery also may resolve issues linked to sleep apnea. In some cases, jaw surgery can treat or prevent a life-threatening medical condition.

After surgery, patients eat and breathe with greater comfort. They usually experience less jaw pain. Surgery also reduces the risks of other dental problems, such as tooth decay. Some patients feel that surgery enhances their appearance, too. Jaw surgery can adjust the chin and bring facial features into balance. Many patients feel more confident after their surgery.

Types of Jaw Surgery

Several different types of jaw surgery are available. The dental team can let you know what kind of procedure they recommend. In some cases, the team may focus on shifting the upper or lower jaw. They might restructure the chin or add bone to the jaw. These surgeries adjust the shape and position of the jawbone.

Sometimes, however, patients may also need temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery. This surgery targets the sliding hinge that allows the lower jaw to move freely. TMJ problems are often linked to jaw deformities. Without treatment, patients can develop crooked teeth, uneven wear, and dental decay.

The dental team can determine whether you need TMJ surgery and if the procedure is right for you. Some TMJ procedures are minimally invasive, with a short recovery time. Other procedures require open surgery. The dental team can help explore the options.

The Jaw Surgery Procedure

On the day of their procedure, patients begin by checking into the hospital. A nurse provides a checkup and helps the patient get ready. Family members can usually stay in the room for this process. The surgeon visits with the family to answer any last-minute questions. Next, patients receive anesthesia. This medication allows patients to sleep through their procedure.

Inside the operating room, the surgeon may use several different surgical techniques. The surgeon might remove part of the jawbone or add bone to the jaw. Sometimes, the surgeon may remove soft tissue inside the mouth. After repositioning the jaw, the surgeon fixes the jaw into place.

Patients are taken to a recovery room after surgery. Nursing staff provides pain medication and close monitoring during this period. After a few hours, the patient moves to their hospital room. Most jaw surgery patients are kept at the hospital for 2-4 days. The team provides regular checkups and confirms that the patient is healing well. Once the patient is on the road to recovery, they are discharged from the hospital.

Recovery Process

The patient must follow a strict diet in the weeks after their surgery. At first, patients stick to liquids. After a few days, they can shift to soft foods. The dental team may recommend soft foods for up to six weeks after jaw surgery.

Recovering from jaw surgery takes time. Patients usually remain at home for 1-3 weeks. Delay strenuous activity like sports for at least three weeks after surgery. Patients should also avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. These substances can trigger infection and slow down recovery.

After six weeks, the dental team may adjust any orthodontic appliances. They may install braces to finish aligning the teeth and jaw. The team might also recommend other appliances, such as removable retainers. These devices help to deliver optimal results after jaw surgery.

The entire recovery process takes about 12 weeks. Most patients recover without complications, but every surgery carries some risks. In rare cases, patients may develop an infection or nerve injury after surgery. The jaw may also shift back to its original position, requiring further treatment. The dental team can provide more information about the risks and benefits of jaw surgery.