Corrective Jaw Surgery Virginia Beach, VA When your upper and lower jaw do not align properly, everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and even breathing can become more difficult. While orthodontic treatment can correct many bite problems, some cases involve underlying skeletal issues that require a different approach. Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is designed to reposition the jaw for improved function, comfort, and facial balance.If your dentist or orthodontist has recommended a consultation with a Virginia Beach oral surgeon, schedule an appointment with Rai Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. Learning more about the procedure can help you understand what to expect and how it may improve your quality of life. What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?Corrective jaw surgery is a procedure that repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, to create a healthier bite and better facial harmony. The surgery addresses problems caused by jawbones that have developed in an improper position, often due to genetics, growth irregularities, injury, or certain medical conditions. Unlike cosmetic procedures that focus only on appearance, corrective jaw surgery is performed to improve oral function while often enhancing facial proportions as an additional benefit. Because the procedure changes the relationship between the upper and lower jaw, patients often experience improvements in chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and overall comfort. Who May Benefit From Corrective Jaw Surgery?Jaw surgery is typically recommended when orthodontic treatment alone cannot correct the alignment of the teeth and jaw. Candidates often have moderate to severe skeletal discrepancies that interfere with normal function. Some common reasons for considering corrective jaw surgery include:
A comprehensive evaluation allows the oral surgeon to determine whether surgery is the most appropriate treatment option. Planning Your TreatmentSuccessful corrective jaw surgery begins with careful planning. Your oral surgeon works closely with your orthodontist to evaluate your bite, facial structure, and overall oral health before recommending surgery. Diagnostic records often include:
Many patients wear braces or clear aligners before surgery to position the teeth properly. Although it may seem unusual to straighten the teeth before correcting the jaw position, this step ensures the teeth will fit together correctly after surgery. Detailed treatment planning helps improve precision and predictability throughout every stage of care. How The Procedure Is PerformedCorrective jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or accredited surgical facility. Depending on your specific needs, surgery may involve the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin, or a combination of these structures. Whenever possible, incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no visible facial scars. The surgeon carefully repositions the jawbones into their planned locations and secures them using small titanium plates and screws designed to remain in place permanently. The length of surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case. Some procedures take only a few hours, while more extensive corrections require additional time. After surgery, patients are monitored closely before returning home or staying overnight for observation if appropriate. Recovery After Corrective Jaw SurgeryRecovery is a gradual process that occurs over several weeks and months. Swelling is expected during the first few days and gradually subsides over time. Bruising, temporary numbness, and mild discomfort are also common during the early healing period. Patients are typically advised to:
Most people return to work or school within a few weeks, although complete healing of the jawbones continues for several months. Regular follow-up visits allow your surgical team to monitor healing and ensure your bite is progressing as planned. Benefits Beyond AppearanceAlthough many patients notice positive cosmetic changes after corrective jaw surgery, the primary goal is improved function. Better jaw alignment often leads to significant improvements in daily life. Potential benefits include:
By correcting the underlying skeletal imbalance rather than simply masking symptoms, jaw surgery can provide lasting improvements that support both oral health and overall well-being. Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Right For You?Not every bite problem requires surgery, but for patients with significant jaw discrepancies, corrective jaw surgery can be a life-changing solution. A comprehensive evaluation by our oral surgeon at Rai Oral Surgery & Dental Implants helps determine whether surgical treatment is appropriate based on your individual anatomy, symptoms, and treatment goals. If you experience difficulty chewing, chronic jaw discomfort, facial imbalance, or bite problems that have not improved with orthodontic treatment alone, scheduling a consultation is an excellent first step. We can be reached at (757) 425-5781. An individualized treatment plan can help restore proper jaw function, improve comfort, and create a healthier, more stable bite. |
