Our Summary

This research paper discusses the advances made in the field of facial bone surgery over the past 20 years, specifically surgeries used to correct jaw misalignment. These advances have led to better results, fewer complications after surgery, and quicker recovery times for patients. The paper aims to give an update on modern methods used to correct jaw misalignment through facial bone surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the advances made in the field of facial bone surgery over the past 20 years?
  2. How have these advances in jaw surgery led to better results and fewer complications?
  3. What are the modern methods used to correct jaw misalignment through facial bone surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include following a soft diet, practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon as recommended. Additionally, it’s important for patients to communicate any concerns or changes in their symptoms to their doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended jaw surgery are those who have severe jaw misalignment, also known as dentofacial deformities. These deformities can affect a person’s ability to chew, speak, and breathe properly. Some common reasons for jaw surgery include:

  1. Severe underbite or overbite
  2. Open bite
  3. Crossbite
  4. Protruding jaw
  5. Receding chin
  6. Facial asymmetry

Patients with these conditions may experience difficulty eating, speaking, and breathing, as well as facial pain and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. They may also have aesthetic concerns related to the appearance of their face and smile.

Before recommending jaw surgery, a thorough evaluation is usually conducted by an orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This evaluation may include imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, and 3D imaging to assess the extent of the jaw misalignment and plan the surgical procedure.

Overall, jaw surgery is recommended for patients who have significant jaw misalignment that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. The surgery aims to improve the function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life for patients with severe dentofacial deformities.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the need for surgery and to create a treatment plan.
  2. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery.
  3. Pre-operative appointments for medical evaluations and to discuss the surgical procedure.
  4. Surgical planning, which may include 3D imaging and computer simulations to guide the surgery.
  5. Day of surgery, which typically involves general anesthesia and a hospital stay for monitoring.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Recovery period, which may involve pain management and swelling for the first few days.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and adjust any post-operative care instructions.
  3. Resumption of normal activities, such as eating and speaking, as the jaw heals.
  4. Post-operative orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and ensure long-term stability.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor the results of the surgery and address any potential complications.

Overall, jaw surgery can greatly improve a patient’s quality of life by correcting functional and aesthetic issues caused by jaw misalignment. Advances in surgical techniques and technology have made the process safer and more effective, leading to better outcomes for patients.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with jaw surgery?

  2. What is the expected recovery time after jaw surgery?

  3. Will I need to follow a special diet or make any lifestyle changes after surgery?

  4. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after jaw surgery?

  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?

  6. How long will the effects of the surgery last?

  7. What are the alternative treatment options to correct jaw misalignment?

  8. How many jaw surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?

  9. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or follow-up surgeries in the future?

  10. How can I best prepare for jaw surgery, both physically and mentally?

Reference

Authors: Lim L, Heggie AA. Journal: Aust Dent J. 2018 Mar;63 Suppl 1:S48-S57. doi: 10.1111/adj.12590. PMID: 29574821