Functional problems and misalignment issues related to the upper jaws can lead to numerous problems, such as malocclusion, protruding teeth, difficulty chewing or speaking, sleep apnea, and more. Dr. Fathimani offers upper jaw surgery to correct functional jaw-related problems.
Correcting Upper Jaw Problems
The upper jaw sits below the eye sockets and includes the upper teeth. The lower jaw includes the lower teeth and chin. Together, the two jaws form the shape of your face. If your upper and lower jaws don’t meet correctly, it can cause problems with chewing and speaking and affect your face’s appearance. Upper jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can correct misalignment problems arising from the upper jaw.
What is Upper Jaw Surgery?
Upper jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, is a type of corrective jaw surgery used to realign the upper jaw with the lower jaw. The procedure involves repositioning the upper jaw in relation to the lower jaw and face using strategic incisions, cuts, screws, and plates. Surgery on the upper jaw is usually performed to improve the function of the teeth and jaws and the overall appearance of the face.
Upper Jaw Surgery: Recovery & Downtime
After your upper jaw surgery, you will be in recovery for a few hours. You will be monitored closely during this time. Once you are awake and alert, you can go home. Most people feel some pain and discomfort after surgery. This is normal and can be managed with pain medication. You will also have some swelling. This usually peaks after two to three days and then starts to go down. It can take up to six weeks for the swelling to completely go away.
You can expect to miss a few days of work or school. Most people take off for one to two weeks. You may need more time off if your job is physically demanding. You must also avoid flying for at least two weeks after surgery. This is because the change in air pressure can cause pain and swelling. You will also need to take it easy for a few days and avoid strenuous activities and exercise, such as heavy lifting.
UPPER JAW SURGERY CAN HELP WITH:
- Congenital problems related to the jaws
- Chronic jaw joint pain (TMJ)
- Involuntary mouth breathing
- Inability to bring the lips together
- Misalignment of the upper and lower jaws
- Malocclusion because of upper jaw misalignment
- Trauma or injury to the jaws
- Excessively gummy smile
- Protruding upper jaw
- Receding lower jaw
- Pathology affecting the upper jaw
- Sleep apnea
To learn more about corrective jaw surgery in Denver, contact our office to schedule an appointment today.
Dr. Fathimani On Upper Jaw Surgery
It Starts With Your Consultation
The first step in upper jaw surgery is to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to see if you are a candidate for surgery. During this consultation, the surgeon will examine your mouth, teeth, and jaw and order x-rays and scans of your face. The surgeon will also ask you about your medical history and any previous surgeries you have had. Once the surgeon has all this information, they will develop a treatment plan specific to your needs.
The Upper Jaw Surgery Process
The first step in upper jaw surgery is to create a surgical plan. This plan is created using diagnostic records, which may include dental x-rays, photographs, and models of the teeth. The surgeon will use these records to map out the precise movements that need to be made to correct your dental and skeletal irregularities. Upper jaw surgery is usually performed under general or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation.
The specifics of corrective upper jaw surgery will be determined by your surgeon based on your individual needs. In some cases, only the bone is cut and repositioned. In other cases, the bone and soft tissue are both cut and repositioned. Once the bones are in place, they will be held together with titanium screws and plates. Sometimes, the lower jaw may also need to be moved into place. Finally, the surgeon will close the incisions with stitches.
Jaw Surgery Before & Afters
Why Choose Us for Corrective Jaw Surgery in Denver
Dr. Kayvan Fathimani is a triple-board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in cutting-edge surgical techniques to address your specific concerns and goals. He takes the time to understand your goals, reviews your medical history, and curates personalized surgical plans that facilitate optimal jaw positioning to offer functional and cosmetic benefits. Please schedule a consultation to explore your orthognathic surgery options in Denver, Colorado.