Orthodontics and Orthognathic Surgery

                       Sometimes, a patient requires more than orthodontic correction with

                       braces to achieve the most optimal result.  Depending on the treatment

                       diagnosis, Dr. Jusino may recommend a consultation with an Oral Surgeon

                       to discuss the best plan of correction.  Should Dr. Jusino refer you to an

                       Oral Surgeon for an evaluation, our office will provide the Oral Surgeon

                       relative information prior to your consultation appointment, including

                       a copy of the digital panoramic x-ray and digital photographs.  A referral

                       outlining Dr. Jusino’s examination diagnosis and treatment recommendations

                       will also be forwarded to the oral surgeon’s office.  Dr. Jusino has

                       successfully treated many patients who have required a combination

                       of braces and orthognathic surgery.  

What is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

                       An oral and maxillofacial surgeon diagnoses and treats a wide range of

                       problems related to the face, mouth, teeth and jaws. The specialty

                       encompasses a background in dentistry and medicine and requires an

                       additional 4-7 years of hospital-based training after dental school. 

What is orthognathic surgery?

                       Orthognathic surgery is surgery performed on the bones of the jaws to

                       change their positions. Orthognathic surgery is corrective facial surgery

                       where deformities of the jaw exist. It may be indicated for functional,

                       cosmetic, or health reasons.  It is surgery commonly done on the jaws in

                       conjunction with orthodontic treatment, which straightens the teeth.

How do I know if I need orthognathic surgery?

                       Facial imbalances are often present and sometimes recognized by

                       the untrained eye. People with large jaws, or chins, or small jaws or chins,

                       teeth which don't fit together, eyeballs which appear bulging, and flat

                       cheekbones are examples of facial characteristics that may be improved

                       by orthognathic surgery. Sometimes the differences are so subtle

                       that only a trained specialist can recognize them. The orthodontist or

                       oral maxillofacial surgeon recognizes the need for surgical repositioning

                       of segments of facial bones or teeth. An evaluation by such a specialist

                       will often easily determine if you are a candidate for this type of surgery.

Will I have to have orthodontics?

                       In most cases where the jaws are being moved, comprehensive orthodontic

                       movement of the teeth may be necessary to prepare the teeth for optimal

                       occlusion or biting positions. Following surgery there is often a short period

                       of orthodontics for subtle and fine detailing of the tooth positions.

What is the surgery like?

                      Some minor orthognathic surgery procedures can be done in the surgeon's

                      office, but most often they are done in the hospital. Surgery usually lasts

                      three to four hours during which time you will be completely asleep. While

                      you are asleep, incisions are made on the inside of your mouth to expose the

                      bones to be cut. The procedures are then carried out. Screws are used to

                      hold the bones and the teeth are not usually wired together at all. The

                      incisions are closed with sutures, and you are ready for recovery.

How long does recovery last?

                     The length of recovery in the hospital may vary from one to three days

                     following surgery. During the week following surgery, activities should

                     be limited. All strenuous activities and heavy exercise should be avoided

                     the first month after surgery. Swelling is common, and a brief period of

                     facial discoloration is possible. Often orthognathic surgery is easier to

                     recover from than the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth.

What if I don't have the surgery?

                     Facial and dental imbalances have influences on function, health, and

                     appearance. Not treating a functional problem may prevent you from

                     being able to bite and chew your food, close your lips together, and to

                     speak clearly. The health of the teeth, gums and particularly the jaw joint

                     (TMJ) may be in jeopardy if surgery is not done. While not often a primary

                     reason for orthognathic surgery, the appearance of your face may be made

                     to look more balanced or normal. One's facial appearance can influence

                     one's quality of life in many ways.

                      Information provided by Dr. Fredric L. Bonine – Oral Surgeon Brighton, Michigan

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